Oxford City help Response resident Anthony to realise his football dream

A pensioner who requires around-the-clock care from Oxfordshire’s largest independent mental health charity had a day to remember at Oxford City after receiving an invite.

Anthony Alce is one of more than 600,000 people in the UK to have received a schizophrenia diagnosis and lives at Iris Hayter House – a specialist CQC registered care home in Littlemore managed by mental health charity Response.

The 78-year-old was invited by the club to their final home game of the season against Chester, where he had a tour of the ground and met with club staff.

Anthony moved into a Response specialist care home in 2020 to help him live independently while also managing several physical and mental health challenges.

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Amazing experience

As a result of his mobility issues, Anthony uses a wheelchair and relies on Response staff to get out and about.

And the opportunity to watch live football is something Anthony was very grateful for.

“It was an amazing experience from start to finish,” said Anthony.

“Everyone was so welcoming, and it meant a lot to feel included and part of such a big matchday.

“The club and everyone involved were brilliant and I’m really grateful to everyone who made it happen.

“Response is vital to me, they help me with my mobility but also reduce my feelings of loneliness because I’m surrounded by likeminded and supportive people.”

Charity

Based in Littlemore but operating across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, Response has been operating for over 60 years and is the region’s largest independent mental health and housing charity.

The charity received all benefits attached to the club’s player sponsorship package after main stand sponsor TotalQ donated the opportunity through its support of Oxford City’s popular centre-half Charlie Wiggett.

It has meant Response’s branding has been visible at all home fixtures at the MGroup Stadium through the 2025-26 season, including in the matchday programme and on the club website.

The charity will also receive a signed shirt at the end of the season.

Fantastic

Anthony is one of more than 350 adults living in supported accommodation provided by Response to enable people experiencing mental health challenges and complex needs to live their lives to the full.

Andy Gate, head of media at Oxford, added: “It was fantastic to welcome Anthony to the MGroup Stadium.

“Oxford City FC is a truly community‑focused club and the work Response does to support those suffering with mental health challenges in the local community is exceptional.

“As a club it is great to be able to play a role to help and support Response with their crucial work.”

Further information about Response is available online via www.response.org.uk.

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