Following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in July 2024, and his subsequent obligatory early retirement from work as heavy goods vehicle driver at the age of 59, Ian Carter found himself feeling directionless and uncertain as he tried to come to terms with a diagnosis that brought many shadows but no certainty, and some very blurred timelines.

Despite not being a professional snooker player, Ian had always found joy in the game. This passion inspired him to create a unique snooker society for people living with FTD or early-onset dementia, in and around his hometown and the surrounding local area. Based in Congleton Snooker Club, and with thanks for their kind provision of exclusive access, the No Tier Snooker Society had its first meeting on 15^th January 2025 and continues to meet weekly on Wednesday afternoons, providing an opportunity for people living with FTD or other early onset dementia diagnoses, their family, friends, or carers to:

• enjoy the beautiful game of snooker, and
• forget the societal pigeonholing that living with a life altering diagnosis holds, as they enjoy being on an equal social tier, free from labels or presumptions.

Behind the Name: No Tier Snooker Society

The name “No Tier Snooker Society” carries a dual meaning. Upon diagnosis, many people often find themselves feeling pigeonholed by friends and family – some overly compassionate, others unsure how to engage. Consequently, this can lead to isolation, where one’s own company becomes the preferred solace. However, within this society, members are equals, free from societal judgment or categorisation. Playing or watching, snooker provides a forum upon which engagement with the game and each other, is enjoyed during the 2 hours they spend together.

Living with FTD or early-onset dementia involves many tears, but for these two hours a week, there are no tears of sorrow—instead, smiles of joy. Thus, “No Tier” plays on this emotional facet, too.

Since its launch in 2025, the No Tier Snooker Society has already positively impacted members and their families by providing a temporary reprieve from their worries and allowing them to connect with others facing similar challenges. There has been much positive feedback and local community support, including interest from a local NHS resource centre which houses the Adult and Older People’s Community Mental Health Team, who are keen to explore options around expanding the initiative with a local football club.

Westwood Golf Club in Leek have also supported the initiative, promoting the No Tier Snooker Society at no charge by erecting an advertising board at the 3rd hole. By referencing the society and its outreach to people living with young onset dementia and FTD in the local area, the club is helping to raise awareness of rare dementia amongst its members. The club have renamed the 3rd hole ‘The Alps’ with the intention to signify the mountains that need to be climbed by people living with frontotemporal dementia, and indeed other rare dementia diagnoses generally.

Despite the generosity of Congelton Snooker Club in making their venue accessible for this initiative, there are a variety of challenges that remain. Members do need to contribute towards weekly costs for use of the venue. During these financially challenging times, some members find it difficult to attend regularly due to income restrictions brought about by the implications of their diagnosis and the fact that for many people, having to stop or reduce their working capacity is typical. Living on reduced income levels is an aspect of rare and young onset dementia that is particularly challenging for many people, and often feels a particularly cruel blow alongside the many other challenges and symptoms they are adapting to living with.

The No Tier Snooker Society is exploring fundraising options to subsidise membership for those who cannot afford to attend weekly, thereby ensuring the club remains operational throughout the year. Click here for information about the current fundraising draw to raise funds for the No Tier Snooker Society , and the opportunity to win a week in a luxury lodge in Loch Lomond. [ Please note this is not an RDS fundraising site].

Inspired by its success, the society envisions expanding the concept of the society to NHS trusts, early-onset dementia groups, and snooker and pool venues across the UK.

Ian describes how the snooker society has really triggered motivation, coordination and encouragement within the group members. And ending on a personal and poignant note he describes how starting No Tier Snooker and being around people who are walking in the same shoes as he is, has been a therapy in itself for him, keeping him focused and motivated. 

Ian is keen that credit is also given to Zesty Digital who have designed, built and are hosting the website for the No Tier Snooker Society at no charge. Without their involvement and support, raising awareness of this initiative, and incentivising others to take the idea on board, would not be possible.

Please kindly note that No Tier Snooker Society is a members-only club, not a registered charity or business, and operates independently. They appreciate donations, large or small, and for more information about the No Tier Snooker Society please visit their website: notiersnooker.co.uk.

Thank you for taking the time to read this story and learn about the No Tier Snooker Society.