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Nottingham Forest Foundation (NFF) has officially launched Second Half, a brand-new, free cardiac rehabilitation programme designed to tackle cardiovascular disease (CVD) and support long-term recovery across Nottingham City.

Championed by former Nottingham Forest defender Julian Bennett as part of the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Players’ Project, Second Half provides structured, safe physical activity for individuals recovering from cardiac events, heart surgery, or stroke, as well as those living with chronic heart conditions.

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of premature mortality in Nottinghamshire, particularly within areas experiencing high levels of deprivation. While clinical care and hospital interventions save lives, long-term recovery requires sustained community-based support. Second Half addresses a critical gap in local healthcare provision by offering specialised Phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation completely free of charge – removing financial barriers to long-term health while helping participants rebuild confidence, mental wellbeing, and social connections.

Speaking on his role as programme ambassador, former Forest defender Julian Bennett expressed his passion for driving heart health awareness across the city:

“I’m proud to champion the Second Half programme. Heart health is something that touches so many families across our city. Through Second Half, we’re using the power of football and the Forest badge to help people rebuild their lives safely after a cardiac event. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing a heart condition, this is about giving people back their confidence and a second chance at a healthy life.”

Colin Eley, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Nottingham Forest Foundation, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to be delivering a free Phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme for local people across Nottingham City. This is something we have never done before and it reflects our commitment to using the power of the Nottingham Forest family to support healthier communities. By removing cost barriers and providing a local, accessible service under the Forest Foundation umbrella, we’re helping people take the next important step in their recovery journey.This programme would not have been possible without the support of the Premier League Foundation and PFA Players’ Fund and support from Julian Bennet championing our work!”

The initial weekly sessions will go live on Wednesday 7th October at Harvey Hadden Sports Village, running every Wednesday from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

• Qualified Expert Leadership: All sessions are led by instructors certified by BACPR (British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation), with portable defibrillators and emergency-trained staff on-site at all times.

• Referral-Based Access: The Phase 4 programme is strictly referral-only via GPs, medical professionals, and NHS healthcare services to ensure participant safety and tailored care.

• Multi-Agency Collaboration: Delivered in partnership with the Nottingham City Integrated Care Board (NHS), Nottingham General Practice Alliance, Thriving Nottingham, Nottingham CityCare, and the Premier League/PFA.

• Targeted Health Equality: Focused on underserved areas and communities disproportionately affected by health inequalities across Nottingham City.

Second Half forms part of a broader commitment by Nottingham Forest Football Club and the Foundation to support public health across Nottinghamshire, mirroring successful collaborative initiatives like Together Against Suicide.

For individuals looking for open-access physical activity without a clinical referral, the Foundation also offers drop-in community hubs – including Healthy Goals and Resilient Reds Hubs – providing low-impact activities like walking groups and chair-based exercise to keep local residents active and healthy.

Information for Patients & Medical Professionals

• Session Venue: Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Wigman Rd, Bilborough, Nottingham NG8 4PB

• Timing: Wednesdays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Starting 7th October 2026)

• Cost: FREE (Referral Only)

Medical professionals wishing to refer patients, or individuals seeking further information about Nottingham Forest Foundation’s health initiatives, can visit nottinghamforestfoundation.co.uk or email Colin.eley@nottinghamforest.co.uk.