EFL Scan to Smile: Hear Liz's Story

From 23–31 January 2026, the EFL spreads positivity across its stadiums with the rollout of its Scan to Smile campaign. Fans attending fixtures will be invited to scan QR codes inside the ground, unlocking inspiring stories to brighten their January and highlight the powerful difference club charities make in their communities. 

Stockport County Community Trust spotlights Liz’s story as part of the campaign. Liz is a valued participant in the Trust’s Parkinson’s UK Wellbeing Programme, which provides vital support to local people living with Parkinson’s.

The programme offers tailored physical activity sessions designed to help ease symptoms, improve mobility and enhance overall wellbeing.  

The Trust currently runs two weekly sessions: an indoor walking football session on Tuesdays, followed by a gentle movement and stretching class every Friday. Both are delivered by fully trained members of the Community Trust team, ensuring sessions are safe, welcoming and accessible for all abilities. 

Liz, who has attended the programme for just over a year, describes it as having a truly positive impact on her life. The programme not only supports her physical health but also offers a meaningful wellbeing boost through regular activity, routine and connection with others. 

Liz said: “Somebody once told me that exercise is the great thing for people with Parkinson’s and that, through exercise, you can slow down the progression of the disease.  

“We have two trainers from the football club who teach us various exercises. You’re quite breathless at the end of it and you really feel like you’ve done something good. 

“It’s open to people with varying degrees of mobility… it doesn’t matter. We’re all here together, we all enjoy biscuits and a chat afterwards. It’s a nice way to spend a Friday if you’re feeling a bit miserable.   

“I would recommend it to anybody who has Parkinson’s.” 

Through the Scan to Smile campaign, the Trust hopes even more fans will discover the difference their club makes off the pitch every day.