Supporters’ Stories

“It’s my Club, the Stadium and the team that I loved all my life. There’s an emotional connection that I wouldn’t get anywhere else.”

Grant recalls his first motivations to join our group of reminiscence volunteers & what over a year of Coronavirus has put into perspective.

“Doing this was emotional and amazing at the same time. Walking together, as a tribute to Shaky created a new bond between us.”

Trevor, Amy and 12 of their friends completed over 300 miles in memory of late Jambo ‘Shaky’ whilst raising funds for Big Hearts.

“With the Coronavirus outbreak I know some people are not as lucky as us, and I want to do something good to help them.”

Eva and her dad Alan decided to volunteer during lockdown, preparing hundreds of packed meals for the most vulnerable.

“As a Jambo, I’m proud to help on behalf of the Club and its charity. It shows that we supporters are looking after each other.”

Whilst befriending a child in care, Angela has found the time to take on additional volunteer work during Covid-19.

“Volunteering has been a very satisfying experience. Humility and giving back are part of our values at Hearts Women.”

Kevin, who is the Hearts Women’s Manager, was one of the first to get involved with Big Hearts when Scotland entered into lockdown.

“I miss going to Tynecastle every week. Being able to check in on older supporters and chat about Hearts makes me feel good.”

As a nurse and a Football Memories volunteer, Fiona continues to play her part spreading some kindness during the pandemic.

“I enjoy being able to volunteer from my home. I’m about the same age as the people I’m phoning – we’ve been supporting Hearts for over 60 years! “

Bill stepped in to help during the Covid-19 disruption – completing a large number of courtesy calls to fans at risk of social isolation.

“I’ve been a Big Hearts Volunteer for many years. As a lifelong Hearts fan, it feels great to go to the Stadium to work every morning!”

Pauline was one of the first fans volunteering with our charity. Four years on, she’s now a paid staff managing over 200 volunteers.

“We are taking on this challenge as The Big Hearts Team because we met via The Changing Room and the project changed our life. We want to give something back.”

Scott and Robert are taking on the Football to Amsterdam challenge to raise awareness of prostate cancer.

“When I had my own issues the help that Big Hearts gave me made me feel it’s only right to give back and help others.” 

After attending our first ‘The Changing Room’ programme, Bryan decided to become a Big Hearts Volunteer and help other men improve their mental health.

“After few weeks you can see the difference you are making to the young person and it’s very rewarding.”

Hearts’ season ticket holder Katriona wanted to help a vulnerable young person through the Club’s charity. She is now a Volunteer Befriender with Big Hearts.

“I learned so much about homelessness. I think I became a better person because of that. It helps me appreciate what I’ve got.”

Susan converted her passion for DIY into a volunteering role with the charity Fresh Start. As part of their ‘Hit Squad’ she helps previously homeless families settle in their new homes.

“Volunteering is really good for me. I like meeting loads of new people and be part of something.”

Nick helps facilitate activities for local school pupils identified as isolated. He’s involved in Big Hearts’ weekly T.E.A.M project and our School’s Out! programme during the summer.

“It’s nice to have something to look forward to. It helps shape my life. Volunteering gives me a purpose.”

To increase her social interactions, Sami got involved in our Edinburgh Memories and Football Memories groups for older people. She’s also started to befriend a child in kinship care.