Last year, we covered how darts fever had gripped some of our Haven independent living schemes as residents took to the oche for some friendly competition against each other.

Now, after months of keenly fought matches, the inaugural winners of the Haven darts league have been crowned. Despite the Michaelstone Court Muppets and Mozart Court Marauders pushing them all the way, it was the Gwyn Court Dinosaurs from Port Talbot who came out on top.

Whilst the matches themselves have been good fun with plenty of laughs, there’s a serious side to the darts as Haven’s independent living officer, Kirk, who came up with the idea, explains:
“The primary aim was simply to get people together, especially those who wouldn’t come to our usual activities like coffee mornings or bingo sessions, and that has certainly happened. We’re seeing residents taking part and socialising who previously didn’t get involved and kept themselves to themselves, and that is very pleasing to see.

“Darts is a very accessible sport, and anyone can give it a go (although some are better than others!), but we make adaptions by allowing less mobile tenants to stand a bit closer to the board or to hold on to a chair whilst they throw. Whatever it takes to get people taking part.

“It’s been great to see how much the residents themselves have bought into the competition, coming up with team names, buying themselves shirts, and even putting on post-match buffets to make them into a real social occasion. There’s definitely a buzz about the place on match days.”

Such is the popularity of the matches, the Haven darts league is set to expand this year with Haven schemes in Neath, Pontardawe and Cwmgors hoping to join in with the fun. Watch out, Luke Littler!