Supporting recovery beyond the hospital through community partnerships and sport
Supporting recovery beyond the hospital through community partnerships and sport
29 July 2026
The partnership combines clinical expertise with the reach and community engagement of Chelsea FC Foundation. Together, they are helping patients recover, rebuild confidence and develop healthier lifestyles.
Bridging the Blues
At the heart of the partnership is Bridging the Blues. This is a 12-week community rehabilitation programme delivered by Chelsea FC Foundation exercise specialists with support from Trust clinicians.
The programme helps bridge the gap between hospital discharge and independent recovery. Through structured and accessible support, patients build confidence, increase physical activity and develop healthy habits that last.
Since launching in 2023, Bridging the Blues has supported more than 325 patients across stroke, cardiac, respiratory and cancer rehabilitation pathways.
Many participants report improvements in both their physical and mental wellbeing. For some, the programme also reduces social isolation by creating opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Laura Cordingley, CEO of Chelsea FC Foundation, said: “Bridging the Blues is a crucial part of bringing people together, creating healthier lives and shaping brighter futures.
The programme has supported over 3,500 hours of free activity, helping improve wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Participants feel stronger, more independent and better able to manage their health. This is something we are extremely proud of.”
Supporting stroke recovery
The stroke pathway shows the impact of this approach.
Designed for people who have experienced a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke, the programme combines exercise with education. Participants learn more about their condition while improving their mobility, confidence and independence.
The results have been encouraging:
- 80% of participants improved their physical outcome measures
- 73% increased their weekly physical activity after completing the programme
Participants said:
"I now realise that I'm not alone in this experience. I have been inspired and encouraged by others' successes, and it has motivated me to never give up."
"Before my TIA, I knew nothing about the condition. This programme was the key part of my learning about TIAs and the lifestyle options that reduce the risk of another stroke."
Cardiac, respiratory and cancer support
The cardiac and respiratory pathway helps patients increase their confidence exercising in a safe and supportive environment.
The cancer programme offers a flexible approach that supports people during treatment and throughout their recovery.
"The programme and staff have been amazing. It has given me support, encouragement, comfort and confidence, as well as hope for the future."
"The course was a great motivator. It has given me confidence so that I can exercise alone or in a group. I feel healthier and fitter than I did in my twenties."
Many participants continue their journey after the programme ends. They join Chelsea FC Foundation community activities, including exercise & mobility classes and adapted sports sessions such as walking football.
So far, 41% of participants have gone on to attend these further sessions post programme. The ongoing support helps people maintain healthy habits, reducing risk of future health problems.
Across every pathway, the aim is the same: to bridge the gap between clinical care and long-term wellbeing.
Supporting NHS staff
The partnership also recognises the importance of supporting the NHS workforce.
In April 2024, a weekly staff football programme was launched to help colleagues stay active, connect with each other and support their mental wellbeing.
Since 2025, the sessions have been led by Trust staff who trained as FA-qualified football coaches thanks to funding from Imperial Health Charity. With more than 280 staff members having taken part so far.
Supporting local communities
The partnership reaches beyond patients and staff into the wider community. Through a range of targeted programmes and events, the partnership supports underserved groups and promotes healthier lifestyles.
