Sir Alex Ferguson
Heading Football-Related Brain Injuries as Industrial Injuries: The Injury Time Campaign
Sir Alex Ferguson and other prominent names in Scottish football have joined the Injury Time campaign, which is calling for football-related brain injuries to be reclassified as industrial injuries. The campaign was launched in 2021 by MSP Michael Marra in response to a study that found ex-professionals were three-and-a-half times more likely to develop dementia.
The Death of Gordon McQueen
The campaign comes just days after the death of former Scotland, Leeds and Manchester United defender, Gordon McQueen. He was diagnosed with dementia two years ago and his family are convinced his condition was a result of repeated heading of the ball.
The Injury Time Campaign’s Demands
MSP Michael Marra has three demands for the Scottish government:
1. Classify brain injury in football as an industrial injury.
2. Give ex-professionals access to the benefits and care they need and have earned.
3. Fund further research into the practical and preventative support within the game at all levels.
The Scottish government has committed to a consultation in the next few months on their approach to replacing the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit scheme in Scotland.
Alex McLeish’s Call for Support
Former Scotland manager Alex McLeish said it was “vital” to get more support for ex-players. He said: “The science guys are not often wrong. So you have to respect that. We need to do something about it, have a voice, and try to shift the government’s stance to help.”
Conclusion
The Injury Time campaign is an important step towards providing support and recognition for footballers who have suffered brain injuries due to their profession. It is hoped that the Scottish government will respond positively to the demands of the campaign and provide the necessary support for ex-professionals who have suffered from football-related brain injuries.