Football is the heartbeat of Newcastle. It’s a religion. Tens of thousands of people march up to St James’ each week, almost trying to suck the ball into the Gallowgate end. The city has a passion for football like few others.
However, for those with disabilities, such as requiring dementia care, enduring mental health conditions or having suffered head injuries requiring help from a head injury care facility for example, a walk up St James’ Boulevard can be a little overwhelming.
Non-league football can be perfectly suited to people with all manner of conditions though, providing a much more calm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the beautiful game and enjoy a passion. In the North East that’s certainly the case, with some fabulous teams to follow.
So, if you’re looking for a calmer location to take your loved one to enjoy a spot of football, here are five North East teams to consider…
Morpeth Town AFC
Located in the heart of Morpeth, the town’s club are a member of the Northern Premier League and is often considered one of the friendliest grounds to travel to by teams across the league.
The ground, Craik Park, has designated wheelchair access, alongside toilets and some amazing volunteers that are always willing to help you get around the ground and answer any questions you may have. They finished mid-table last term, so you never know, you may get a play-off push next season, although it is a difficult league.
Blyth Spartans AFC
Staying in the same league, but only as a result of relegation last season, Blyth Spartans are one of the most famous non-league clubs having enjoyed several giant kills in the FA Cup down the years.
Croft Park has seen many memorable nights and is a brilliant ground for enjoying the beauty of non-league, with designated wheelchair viewing areas, accessible facilities, disabled facilities and an all round fantastic atmosphere.
North Shields FC
North Shields have enjoyed some good success in recent years, having won the FA Vase a decade ago next season. It’s the perfect time to join as supporters, celebrating the anniversary.
The Daren Persson Stadium is quaint and a real taste of what non-league is about. On a cold Tuesday night, you can smell the Bovril wafting through the air. What more can you ask for?
Spennymoor Town FC
Spennymoor’s Brewery Field offers some excellent facilities having been a prominent non-league club in the north of England for many years. Currently playing their trade in the National League North, finishing level on points with North East rivals South Shields last term, it’s a league that’s ideal for getting into with loved ones.
That’s due to having the space within the ground to not feel penned in or crowded, while also competing against some notable former Football League teams such as Chester, Darlington, Scunthorpe United and Hereford.
Whitley Bay FC
Finally, Whitley Bay’s Hillshead Park is one of the most picturesque grounds in football. It’s well known for its warm welcome and has a wheelchair viewing area as well as plenty of seating.
Finishing 10th in the Northern League Division One last term, all games are relatively local to the North East, perfect for even becoming a home and away supporter if you so wish!
