This week’s announcement by the Welsh Government of a return to closed-door sporting events in the wake of the new Omicron variant was deeply disappointing. After a difficult 18 months, we know how much it meant to fans to be allowed back into the Swansea.com stadium, and the noise from the Jack Army throughout the season so far has been excellent. We recognise however that public safety is paramount, and hope these restrictions will be effective in achieving the outcomes set out quickly so we can return to watching the Swans in action early in 2022.
The requirements placed on the club to respond to this change were significant, and we were incredibly pleased with the speed and efficiency with which the club’s senior management team worked to identify and implement an alternative for fans. We were able to discuss and provide input to develop the options, and are very pleased at the outcomes that have been reached. We would like to thank Julian Winter, Rebecca Edwards-Symmons, and the wider team for their continued work with us on this.
In case you have missed any of the announcements, they are available here:
Julian Winter’s statement: https://www.swanseacity.com/news/swansea-city-update-julian-winter-0
Further information on streaming options for supporters: https://www.swanseacity.com/news/efl-streaming-information-supporters
On a slightly different note, we understand that football, and sport more widely, has a tremendous power to bring people together and for many is a safe outlet for stress and anxiety. We know that the opportunity to meet with friends and family, share a meal or a drink, and have the chance to talk can provide an escape from the pressures that we face in our day-to-day lives. These sporting events can mean even more at Christmas time, which can be a very difficult period for some people. The temporary removal of these opportunities may therefore be challenging for some within our community who are struggling.
If you or anyone you know is struggling as a result of the latest announcements, or for any other reason, please do speak up and ask for help. We have signposted some local support and resources below for anyone who may need someone to talk to over the festive period. You are not alone – there are people ready and willing to help you.
- Samaritans – 116 123 (FREE and available 24/7) Email: jo@samaritans.org
- C.A.L.L. Mental Health Helpline for Wales – 0800 132 737 (FREE and available 24/7) Text help to 81066.
- Dan 24/7 Wales Drug and Alcohol Helpline – 0808 808 2234 (FREE and available 24/7, bilingual) Text Dan to 81066.
- Talk Club (www.wetalkclub.com)
- Wales Dementia Helpline – 0808 808 2235 (FREE) Text help to 81066.
A more detailed list of resources and support can be found here and from the charity MIND.
To all of our members and the wider Jack Army, we wish you all a safe and happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous new year.
23rd December 2021
