EFL Clubs and the network of Club Community Organisations are once again supporting Green Football Weekend.
Running from 2-5 February, EFL Clubs and their community organisations are hosting a wide range of activities and initiatives to have a positive impact on our planet, including to encourage football supporters across the world to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, not only benefitting their own health, but also having a positive impact on the planet.
We’ve already seen lots of activity, including:
Northampton Town holding their Green Game last Saturday, with local community and environmental groups attending to share their work with fans.
Wycombe Wanderers launching their new BeOne Sustainability Strategy.
Leicester City in the Community joined volunteers in planting 90 trees at a local playing fields.
QPR sharing their sustainable travel pledge as part of their green game last Sunday.
Watford announcing a new sustainable travel partnership to help understand and address the impact of fans travelling to matches.
Bradford City players visiting vegetarian restaurant Prashad to learn more about plant-based cooking ahead of the Community Foundation’s launch of new veggie and vegan options in their community hub.
West Bromwich Albion introducing their Baggies Pastures Green to fans and shared some of the work they’ve done since forming in 2022.
In the lead up to their game against Southampton, Rotherham United launching their Swap Shop, offering fans the chance to trade in their surplus Rotherham United kit and swap it for something new.
Blackburn Rovers Community Trust linking up with their Club partner, BGreenn, to provide guidance energy saving guidance to two groups of young people who regularly attend the charity’s Neighbourhood Youth Offer programme, and promoting the benefits of smart meters as part of their Smart Energy GB community work to Remember the Rovers participants.
Damon Fox, Sustainability Lead at the Northampton Town FC Community Trust, said: “People in our community are very interested in doing what they can to help the environment and prevent climate change.
“I urge everyone to get involved because engaging with Green Football Weekend is a lot of fun for you and your family, and you’re helping a great cause.”
Keep an eye out on activity by following the #GreenFootballWeekend hashtag over the weekend.
Supporters can log their actions on the Green Football Weekend website in order to score green goals helping their team climb up the leaderboard as fans support the campaign.
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Green-football-weekend.jpg9001200Andrew Rudkinhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngAndrew Rudkin2024-02-02 17:46:522024-02-02 17:46:52Green Football Weekend Kicks Off
The English Football League (EFL) continued to celebrate the important role that their Club Community Organisations (CCOs) play in their local communities this weekend; with more staff, volunteers and participants nominated as their Clubs local Community Champions.
Unfortunately Stevenage’s game against Barnsley was postponed due to a frozen pitch. However, Stevenage FC Foundation’s still took time to celebrate their Community Champion XI, although they will have to wait for their plaudits at The Lamex Stadium.
Pete Moss one of the eleven nominated by the Foundation is a frequent participant at walking football sessions where he first attended in 2016. Just four years later in 2020, Pete was selected to represent England against Welsh counterparts until COVID-19 made him wait until 2022 to finally get his hands on his England cap.
His support for the Foundation extends further than his beloved walking football, as he also volunteers for the charity Samaritans and supports the Extra Time Hub sessions at The Oval Community Centre on a Thursday.
Pete noted “These events have been positive for my mental and physical wellbeing through interaction with new people and taking part in new activities. I consider myself fortunate that my involvement in the Foundation sessions has had such a positive impact on my life”.
A 0-0 draw for Derby away to Lincoln was not what the Rams fans would have wanted to celebrate this weekend however they will be celebrating one of their own Community Champions, Alex Owens.
Derby celebrated their Community Champions ahead of their last game against local rivals, Burton Albion where they were presented to the crowd and pictured with both captains at Pride Park.
Alex has played football with Derby County Community Trust since the age of 10 where she was part of the Regional Talent Centre set-up. Now aged 17, she’s part of the popular Football and Education programme whilst continuing to represent Derby County U20’s in the FA Women’s National League Reserve Midland Division where her side is currently unbeaten.
As well as being a distinction student, Alex also qualified as a referee in October and officiates on the Female Talent Pathway fixtures every Saturday. As well as giving her time to support these fixtures, she regularly volunteers as a coach on a Friday evening at the ETC helping to inspire the next generation of female footballers.
Another fixture in League One where Wigan’s Thelo Aasgaard scored the only goal in their game against Reading to secure his side three points.
With three points being celebrated at the DW Stadium, the Lactics also had Dennis Heaton to honour ahead of kick off as he was chosen as their Community Champion.
Dennis has Parkinson’s disease and is a member of Wigan Athletics’ Community Trust’s Extra Time Hub programme. The Extra Time Hub aims to tackle loneliness and isolation amongst over 55’s with the weekly sessions allowing participants to enjoy their retirement years, remain active and meet new people.
Since joining the sessions, Dennis has gone from strength to strength and gained a new lease on life. Dennis has taken on several challenges, including learning to rock climb, flying a plane and taking on the world’s longest zipline to raise over £1,000 to support the work of Wigan Athletic Community Trust.
Plymouth Argyle almost had their fans worried after they conceded early on in their Championship fixture with Cardiff City who sit four points ahead of Argyle however a Ryan Hardie double and a late Morgan Whittaker goal earnt a comeback win at Home Park.
Argyle’s Community Heroes attended Home Park as special guests on Saturday, and were presented with a bespoke framed shirt, referencing their incredible commitment and hard work to the community.
Alec is Cornish born but Argyle through and through and has held multiple roles with the Club and Trust across his long and proud career. A career which has spanned decades and began with Alec running the Argyle youth team and Centre of Excellence, supporting and mentoring local young people in football.
Alec became involved in the Trust when the EFL introduced the original Community Scheme, and he has dedicated the last 25 years leading ‘Matchday Magic’ at Home Park Stadium – a matchday provision inspiring local young people and creating the next generation of the Green Army.
Al’s passion for the club and professionalism has made him a firm favourite at Argyle and within the city.
Argyle Community Trust’s Chief Executive Officer Mark Lovell said: “We are extremely grateful for the incredible work of our community heroes and the commitment they show. This is a great opportunity to honour them and celebrate these special people, people I am proud to have worked with and to call my friends.
“We are delighted to welcome them as guests of honour in front of a sold-out Home Park and give them the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication.”
🏆Congratulations, Alec Brenton | Community Hero
🗣️ “To think that I had some input into their footballing lives, I just hope that the young coaches at Argyle now, involved, realise how lucky they are to be doing the job.”#pafc | #EFLCommunityWeekends | @efl | @efltrust
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/shutterstock_editorial_14297057bz-scaled.jpg17402560Olivia Foxhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngOlivia Fox2024-01-22 15:45:132024-01-22 14:44:10EFL Clubs crown more Community Champions on the second EFL Community Weekend
Last weekend marked the first-ever EFL Community Weekend campaign, as Clubs across the EFL highlighted and rewarded the tireless work of staff and volunteers at Club Community Organisations (CCOs), whilst also showcasing the stories of participants within their local communities whose lives have been changed through the power and work of their football club and their charities.
As matches took place up and down the country, community champions everywhere were thanked and rewarded.
In Suffolk, Ipswich Town honoured season ticket holder Adam Woodmason who led the teams out in their fixture against Sunderland on Saturday. Adam was registered blind five years ago but was determined to continue his independence despite his diagnosis, this included attending his beloved Portman Road to enjoy his side playing football.
With matchday assistance from the club and its foundation, including access to Soccer Sight descriptive commentary which offers detailed real-time coverage to assist visually impaired supporters in being part of the matchday experience, Adam is able to enjoy his matchdays to the full.
As well as attending regularly as a season ticket holder, Adam also participates in numerous programmes that the Ipswich Town Foundation facilitates. He takes part in weekly walking football sessions as well as being a frequent attendee at Senior Blues, which is an inclusive environment designed to support social inclusion and light physical activity.
Adam says that his involvement with the Foundation has been a great help: “When I got told I lost my sight five years ago, there was a dread of the unknown,” he said. “Senior Blues and walking football have both helped me to interact with new people, which has helped me no end.”
Photo Credit: Michael Zemanek/Shutterstock
From the South East to North Wales, where Wrexham shone a light on their Wrexham Miners Project at their game against AFC Wimbledon.
Alan, Margaret, George and Sharon were presented with a certificate by Executive Director Humphrey Ker in celebration of the positive impact the Miners Project has had on the local community.
The Wrexham Miners Project preserves the borough’s heritage and commemorates the tragic 1934 Gresford Colliery Disaster, as well as providing a hub for the local community to partake in various recreational, educational and social activities.
As Wrexham climbed to second in League Two with their win over AFC Wimbledon, Cambridge United hosted Fleetwood Town in League One with Sully Kaikai the hero for his side as his stoppage time winner saw them take all three points from the visitors.
As part of the #EFLCommunityWeekend, we welcomed the Wrexham Miners Project to the STōK Cae Ras.
To find out more about their visit and the excellent work they do, click below 👇
However, Cambridge United Foundation’s Simon Wall may just put into perspective a true hero.
The Foundation’s Community Engagement manager, Simon lives just a short walk from the club and truly embodies committing to make a difference to his local community.
Simon is invaluable to Cambridge United Foundation’s team as he plays a pivotal role in hosting sessions for those young and old from holiday camps to Forever United. Evidently, Simon has strived to ensure his community are better served as he has dedicated thousands of hours to delivering meals, hosting bootcamps, and doing garden gate check-ins with vulnerable adults during covid and providing lifesaving CPR to one of our walking football participants, saving his life before paramedics arrived.
Congratulations to Becca Gage and Simon Wall on being our EFL Community Heroes award winners!
— Cambridge United Foundation (@CUFCFoundation) January 12, 2024
From League Two to the Championship, where Cardiff City Foundation showcased two very worthy community champions.
Zack’s involvement with the Community Foundation spans more than two years, during which time he has consistently attended an impressive four sessions per week. His commitment goes beyond mere participation as he actively contributes to Inclusive Football Sessions, supporting beneficiaries with complex needs on a one-to-one basis.
Despite facing multiple disabilities, he has demonstrated unwavering determination. The support of his parents has been crucial, as they ensure his attendance at sessions since Zack is not able to drive. This collaborative effort showcases the strength of community and familial support in overcoming challenges.
Through his involvement with the Community Foundation, Zack has experienced significant personal growth. His confidence has blossomed, and with the Community Foundation’s support, he now leads aspects of session delivery.
As Wrexham climbed to second in League Two with their win over AFC Wimbledon, Cambridge United hosted Fleetwood Town in League One with Sully Kaikai the hero for his side as his stoppage time winner saw them take all three points from the visitors.
However, Cambridge United Foundation’s Simon Wall may just put into perspective a true hero.
The Foundation’s Community Engagement manager, Simon lives just a short walk from the club and truly embodies committing to make a difference to his local community.
Simon is invaluable to Cambridge United Foundation’s team as he plays a pivotal role in hosting sessions for those young and old from holiday camps to Forever United. Evidently, Simon has strived to ensure his community are better served as he has dedicated thousands of hours to delivering meals, hosting bootcamps, and doing garden gate check-ins with vulnerable adults during covid and providing lifesaving CPR to one of our walking football participants, saving his life before paramedics arrived.
From League Two to the Championship, where Cardiff City Foundation showcased two very worthy community champions.
Zack’s involvement with the Community Foundation spans more than two years, during which time he has consistently attended an impressive four sessions per week. His commitment goes beyond mere participation as he actively contributes to Inclusive Football Sessions, supporting beneficiaries with complex needs on a one-to-one basis.
Despite facing multiple disabilities, he has demonstrated unwavering determination. The support of his parents has been crucial, as they ensure his attendance at sessions since Zack is not able to drive. This collaborative effort showcases the strength of community and familial support in overcoming challenges.
Through his involvement with the Community Foundation, Zack has experienced significant personal growth. His confidence has blossomed, and with the Community Foundation’s support, he now leads aspects of session delivery.
Continuing with personal growth, dedication and commitment is Grace Snell.
Struggling with mainstream education and having had a challenging experience engaging in her subjects, Grace found her calling in the world of sports and sought an alternative path to pursue her interests.
Grace’s journey with the Community Foundation began when she joined the BTEC Level 3 sport programme. Now in her second year of the Foundation Degree in Community Football Coaching and Development in partnership with the EFL Trust and the University of South Wales, Grace has not only excelled academically but has also emerged as a true community hero through her commitment to volunteering and community engagement.
Grace’s impact is particularly noteworthy in her role within the Foundation’s secondary education programme at St Cenydd Comprehensive School. Working closely with pupils, Grace has built a rapport and understanding by drawing on her personal experiences. She connects with young individuals facing similar challenges, providing them with a relatable role model.
These individuals showcase the important work going on at Club Community Organisations nationwide, and with this coming matchday weekend (19th-21st) being the second EFL Community Matchday, clubs will continue to spotlight their huge successes in providing and bettering their local communities.
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Mascots-Jan-13th-24.webp7651360Olivia Foxhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngOlivia Fox2024-01-16 16:00:512024-01-16 16:34:59EFL Clubs celebrate local community heroes
Local community heroes will be celebrated up and down the country from Friday 12 January to Saturday 20 January as the EFL, EFL Trust, 72 EFL Clubs and their Community Club Organisations launch the first-ever EFL Community Weekends.
Across the period, Clubs, managers and players will mark the incredible work that community staff and volunteers deliver 365 days per year, while participants from community programmes will be honoured by special visits from players and matchday activities.
As part of matchday activations, fans will get the chance to hear from participants that have had their lives changed or even saved by their Club’s community work and find out more details about the range of projects and ways to get involved.
A host of these community heroes and projects that will be recognised include:
Colchester United’s community champion, Lauren, who has recently been re-diagnosed with a brain tumour and is documenting her journey to raise awareness for other young people living with similar conditions
Volunteers from Hull City’s Street Soccer Academy, a funded programme designed to build confidence and life-skills for local young people
Programme leaders and participants from Ipswich Town’s ‘Senior Blues’ initiative, which provides an inclusive environment to tackle loneliness and promote active lifestyles
Kai, a member of Cambridge United’s autism football project, and his mother Becca who have been awarded the Club’s Inspirational Family Award
Derby County’s Alan Higgins, who has supported community sport at Oakwood for a number of years, including providing transport and subsidising fees for local children to play football
Yakub Mohammed, who has been a part of Swindon Town FC’s Refugee football squad since its launch in 2022
Rotherham’s community heroes who will be hosted in the Club’s Corporate Hospitality Lounge as a thank you for their continued efforts to the local community, including Jon Carnforth who was recently recognised in the King’s Honours list with an MBE for his services during the pandemic
Trevor Birch, CEO of the EFL, said: “Community remains a fundamental part of the EFL and its 72 Clubs’ identity, so we are delighted to launch the latest strand of activity in this area – the EFL Community Weekends. The work undertaken by Clubs has a hugely positive impact on the participants of the various programmes and the towns and cities where people live.
“Football continues to reach parts of local areas that others simply cannot and successfully addresses challenges linked to health, wellbeing, education and employment alongside helping to keep communities connected. We look forward to celebrating this incredible work in front of match-going fans over the coming two weekends across our network.”
Liam Scully, Chair of the EFL Trust, said: “Our Clubs and Club Community Organisations engage more than 840,000 people from EFL communities all year round. To be able to showcase the Club community work as a collective and acknowledge the work of participants and programme leaders, many of whom are volunteers, further highlights the unique ability of our network.”
The EFL Community Weekends build on the success of the recent EFL Week of Action in November – where the League and its Clubs shone a light on the significant impact Club community work has on towns and cities in England and Wales, valued at over £865m a season in the latest community impact report.
During the 2021/22 season, EFL Clubs deployed a workforce of almost 10,000 (of which over 4,000 are volunteers) to support community activities, delivering in-kind support of over £40m and more than 120,000 hours of free or subsidised usage of community facilities to benefit the lives of those living in the local community.
For more information on the EFL Community Weekends and the impact of EFL Club community work please visit www.efl.com
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/CommunityWeekends_Master_1080x1080_V1.png10801080EFL Trusthttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngEFL Trust2024-01-15 15:03:072024-01-15 15:03:17EFL CLUBS SHINE LIGHT ON LOCAL COMMUNITY HEROES
Deepdale and Ewood Park saw hundreds of people sleep rough to raise tens of thousands of pounds to support charities that support the homeless.
Both Blackburn Rovers Community Trust and Preston North End Community and Education Trust hosted hundreds of people on the same evening with participants sleeping on the side of the pitches and in the stands.
Preston’s Big Sleep Out returned for the first time since 2019 to raise funds for the city’s Foxton Centre’s Day Centre, that supports vulnerable young people and adults.
The money raised will go to frontline services at the Day Centre which offers a place after people have found themselves on the streets to have safe and warm space to be fed and receive support.
Blackburn’s event gathered donations and awareness for the Trust and Nightsafe, a local charity providing support and emergency help to homeless people in Blackburn with Darwen.
Martin Winters, Head of Operations at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust said: “This year’s Big Sleep Out, under the stars at Ewood Park, was a fantastic example of the community coming together to raise awareness and support around homelessness.
“The money raised will be split between Nightsafe and Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, all to help people from crisis to providing pathways into education and work.”
Nicola Roscoe, Operations Manager at Nightsafe, added: “The Big Sleep is just one night of experiencing homelessness and what it is like to be out on the streets, which is sadly an unfortunate everyday occurrence for some people.
“The Sleep Out raises much-needed awareness around homelessness and much-needed funds to keep services operating to support our young people who shouldn’t have to face any night on the streets.”
As a result of both events, tens of thousands of pounds have already been raised for the causes.
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/shutterstock_editorial_14217959a-1-scaled.jpg17072560Andrew Rudkinhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngAndrew Rudkin2023-12-22 10:24:562023-12-22 10:24:56Stadium Big Sleep Outs In Lancashire Support Homeless
In 2021/22, EFL Clubs and Club Community Organisations engaged with over 840,000 individual participants in community-focused sessions and events.
Almost one in five of those people live with a disability, many of which are children and young people.
On International Day of Persons With Disability (December 3rd), Here are some stories of incredible young adults and youngsters, with the support of amazing community initiatives in EFL communities, who are excelling in the face of adversity.
Thomas’ National Success
Double amputee Thomas Atkinson uses his disability to inspire others in the community to follow in his path.
Thomas talks about his experience at Carlisle United Community Sport Trust and how his time there has helped shape him to become to the person he is today and play for the England Amputee Team.
“Being a student of the Carlisle United Community Education Programme was wildly beneficial for me,” Thomas said.
“I wasn’t just getting regular top level training sessions. I was learning about health and the way my body functions, which is so important.
“I was the only student with a disability, but I felt included every step of the way. Everyone was very supportive to help me achieve my goals.”
Thomas was referred to the England setup by the Cumberland FA after being spotted playing in various football camps, including Carlisle United’s soccer schools while he was a Community Sports Trust Football Development student at the Cumbrians.
As well as now being a coach at the Club Community Organisation, he has also managed to become a regular starter in goal for England Amputee Football, recently winning a Nations League competition in Poland, bringing back the team’s first major trophy in 30 years.
“Through my experiences as a community coach I know I have inspired people in their own way,” added Thomas.
“Whether it’s seeing a disabled person go on and succeed in sport. I feel a sense of pride when I am coaching, especially when young people have smiles on their faces during my sessions. It’s an amazing feeling to achieve.”
Thomas gives his advice to anybody facing challenges within the sports industry.
“The way you are is the way you are,” he added. “I was born with a disability and I can’t change that and you cannot change your situation, so your best move is to be grateful for what you have and do your best with what you can offer.
“I was born with one leg and I also have one arm. That doesn’t mean I can just sit back and watch everyone else and it doesn’t mean I can’t play. Everyone has their challenges; you just need to find your own way to overcome yours.”
Zac’s Journey
With his positive personality, Zac has brought his passion to every session and now aims to pursue a future in coaching.
At just 18 months old, Zac was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a lifelong condition that affects movement and co-ordination.
He became a Shrewsbury Town Foundation participant and joined ShrewsAbility in 2017. It was here that he found a passion for football and was able to play alongside other participants facing familiar challenges.
Zac joined the Foundation for a week of work experience in 2022, in which he got involved with different areas of the organisation from coaching to media.
One of the employment pathways the Foundation provide is their Coaches’ Academy, a programme that teaches 14 to 15-year-olds how to develop their coaching skills through both classroom and practical based learning.
Zac said: When I first joined ShrewsAbility I didn’t think I’d be able to participate in football, but they have me the opportunities to do something I didn’t think I’d be able to do.”
Jamie Edwards, CEO at Shrewsbury Town FC Foundation added: “What you see with Zac is about us getting him ready for employment which is what we’re doing across all our programmes is about providing that pathway into employment.”
Upon graduating from the programme, Zac wishes to join the Foundation’s College and University programme and achieve a coaching qualification.
Oscar’s Story
Young Oscar doesn’t let his disability get in the way of him staying active and having fun.
Whether its handball, dodgeball, cricket or football, Oscar – a double amputee – always has a smile on his face and loves taking part in physical activity.
Much of that enjoyment is down to the support he receives from Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s Ruby Jager who provides engaging and inclusive sessions for him.
Ruby, a Community Coach, spoke about what it is like to coach Oscar: “Not only has Oscar learnt about different ways to overcome his barrier and use it as an advantage, but he has also learnt what is healthy and unhealthy for his body.
“Oscar is a pleasure to teach and always gives everything a go. He always challenges himself and is not afraid to ask for help when he needs it. His friends are so encouraging of him, and he always has a smile on his face when he’s around them.”
Ruby added: “By schools having us coaches delivering different programmes, it allows kids to learn new sports, learn different skills, learn about healthy eating and frees up teachers’ times.”
Foundation help ‘role model’ Bryson
“If I hadn’t have gone to Phil’s sessions, I wouldn’t have been walking on my own.”
Bryson’s relationship with Cambridge United Foundation’s Phil Mullen has been lifechanging for the youngster who lives with cerebral palsy.
The 11-year-old started playing frame football at the Club Community Organisation when he was 4 years old and could not do independent steps at the time.
He has progressed from using a frame, to quad sticks, tripods and monopod sticks – now taking some steps without walking aids.
Much of this progression s down to the popular football-based sessions provided by Phil which helps participants who live with a disability.
The Foundation said Bryson is a fantastic role model to new participants joining the sessions and a shining example of how football can help improve coordination, agility and motor skills.
Bryson’s mother Ann said: “It’s just so lovely to see Bryson and Phil’s relationship because he trusts him completely.”
Bryson added: “My greatest achievement is walking and doing my sills with a size three ball now.”
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/EFL-CiTC-Page-4-or-5-Zac.jpg10801920Andrew Rudkinhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngAndrew Rudkin2023-12-03 20:26:262023-12-03 20:26:26Breaking Down Barriers
EFL Club Community Organisations attended the annual EFL Trust Conference this week to celebrate and further develop the impact they have in their communities across England and Wales.
EFL Chair Rick Parry and EFL Trust Chair Liam Scully addressed the Conference along with EFL CEO Trevor Birch and newly appointed Director of Community, Debbie Cook, who will take position in February 2024 to lead the EFL Trust.
At the Conference, the EFL Trust was announced as a strategic partner of Sport England to help people across communities move more and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Sport England’s Executive Director of Partnerships, Phil Smith, took to the stage setting out the scale of the challenge faced as a nation to increase activity rates among the sections of communities least likely to be active.
The EFL Trust will receive long-term National Lottery funding from Sport England and has committed to influence positive change and drive improvements across the network and beyond. This forms part of Sport England’s approach to long-term partnerships with organisations aligned to the Uniting the Movement strategy.
The conference also welcomed key commercial partners, Kellogg’s and Sky Bet, outlining opportunities to support Club communities over the coming years.
Business Development Director, Andy Snell shared a range of updates including news that the Trust is now a member of the European Football for Development Network (EFDN), an organisation dedicated to strengthening the social impact of football across Europe.
The annual event culminated in a series of workshops for Clubs and CCOs addressing key areas that impact the impressive community work across our 72 Clubs in the Community.
Liam Scully said: “The annual EFL Trust Conference is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the impactful community work across the network and an ideal occasion to bring all the Clubs and Community Organisations together to build stronger, healthier and more cohesive communities.”
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Debbie Cook has been appointed as the EFL’s new Director of Community and will be responsible for overseeing the management of the EFL’s charitable arm, the EFL Trust.
Having worked in local government for 22 years, Cook brings a wealth of leadership experience, previously holding CEO positions at a national health charity and YMCA Humber respectively, before joining Grimsby Town as CEO in June 2021.
Announced at the EFL Trust’s annual conference today (29th November), Cook will also join the League’s Executive Leadership team to further strengthen the EFL and EFL Trust, building on the annual £865m social value contribution that the League’s 72 Clubs make in towns and cities across England and Wales each year.
Trevor Birch, CEO of the EFL, said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Debbie to the EFL, bringing with her a wealth of expertise and leadership skills across the sports and charity sectors. I have no doubt that Debbie will make a significant contribution to the League’s Executive team while overseeing operations of the EFL Trust.”
Liam Scully, Chair of the EFL Trust, added: “On behalf of the EFL Trust Board, we’d like to thank our senior team for their unwavering commitment and achievements in managing the charity over what’s been an uncertain 10 months for the EFL Trust. We welcome Debbie to the role and look forward to building on the foundations that have been provided by the network’s outstanding work in recent years.”
Debbie said: “EFL Clubs make a huge impact on communities on a scale which is unprecedented in this country and I’m excited to be joining the EFL as we seek to build on the amazing work that goes on day in, day out.
“It’s been a privilege to witness at Grimsby Town Football Club just how much a club can represent a community and impact the lives of so many people.
“The lessons I have learned during my wonderful period at the club will inform much of my work and I am excited to take on this new challenge.”
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Debbie-Cook-Headshot.jpg16001117Andrew Rudkinhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngAndrew Rudkin2023-11-29 11:19:482023-11-29 11:19:48New EFL Community Director Appointed To Lead EFL Trust
Blackburn Rovers Community Trust’s award winning Men in Sheds group visited the Senior Training Centre earlier this month to meet the first team squad.
The group were given a tour of the facility, and watched the first team prepare for their Championship match at home against Preston North End.They also had a Q&A session with Rovers’ Tyrhys Dolan, with the discussion focused on mental health and well-being.
Tyrhys was very open with the group about the challenges he has faced in his life, following the passing of his best friend Jeremy Wisten in 2020.Likewise, the Men in Sheds group shared their own experiences of how they have lost somebody close to them, and how it had an impact on their mental health.
The Men in Sheds project is run in partnership with Darwen Council, with the aim of supporting men in the community to discuss their mental health and develop new skills in a safe environment.
The group has 20 plus members signed up, and they all meet up on a weekly basis, and have developed close friendships courtesy of the programme. In 2022, Men in Sheds won the Health and Wellbeing Awards – Group – at the Community Volunteer Awards at King George’s Hall.
Bharat Parmar, who regularly attends in the Men in Sheds programme, said: “It was nice to speak to a professional footballer about what he has gone through and it is not easy to talk about.“Tyrhys is only 21 years old and being able to talk about what he has gone through, and he is like an ambassador now to raise awareness, it is fantastic what he does.
“It is great for the Men in Sheds group to be involved with this visit to the Senior Training Centre. Unless people talk about mental health, it will never go any further, so it is important we do talk.”
Each year, on the 19th November, International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities. The purpose for International Men’s Day is to also raise awareness for the multiple issues that men face.
Ilyas Patel, who runs the Men in Sheds programme for Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, said: “It was a privilege to have the opportunity to visit the senior traning ground last week and be able to watch the players train.
“The group absolutely loved it and were so excited to have their shirts signed and to get to meet the players. Meeting with Tyrhys Dolan and him talking about his struggles was inspirational and really helpful to the group.”
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Blackburn-Mens-Day-2023.jpg580870Olivia Foxhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngOlivia Fox2023-11-19 08:30:132023-11-17 15:57:13Blackburn Rovers Community Trust’s award winning Men in Sheds group visit Senior Training Centre
EFL Clubs and their Community Organisations have been paying their respects and tributes to the Armed Forces community.
Grounds across the EFL stood still this November to observe two-minute silences prior to kick offs, also welcoming military personnel, players wearing poppies on shirts and wreaths laid on the pitch.
The Armed Forces Community are a huge part of EFL communities with more than 1.8m people in England reporting they had previously served in the UK.
Many Clubs and their Community Organisations (CCOs) across the EFL provide a range of support programmes for veterans of all ages, helping them with mental health challenges, and education and employment opportunities.
Here’s just a flavour of the community engagement that’s took place…
As part of the EFL Week of Action (6th-10th November), Preston North End Community & Education Trust hosted a football match with mixed teams of veterans and refugees/asylum seekers.
An celebratory occasion where football was used as a platform for integration, where everyone told their emotional stories before the match took place, including those from the PNE Forces programme.
The initiative includes football and social sessions designed to allow forces members of both past and present a way to keep active while forming new relationships with like-minded people, all the while benefiting their mental and physical health.
Many CCOs used EFL Week Of Action – a dedicated week that showcases the outstanding work within the 72 EFL Communities – to highlight stories of veterans they have supported.
Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme took two veterans from their Owls In Force project into local primary schools where they shared their experiences. Take a look at their video here.
The CCO in Morecambe, a town with a long history supporting the Armed Forces community, even have a dedicated Veterans Support Officer among their ranks.
Veterans, serving personnel and families of veterans from across Lancashire unite at the Mazuma Stadium monthly, via a Morecambe FC Community Sports-run coffee morning session, where they have the chance to engage, seek out agency support and rediscover camaraderie.
“We have a duty to look after our Armed Forces and their families, and we and local partners, have a proud tradition of doing just that.
“Our coffee mornings have gone from strength to strength, including a newly-established volunteer group to work on more community projects. We felt it was right to introduce a dedicated role which has been gratefully funded by the Veterans Foundation to allow us to grow our support offer.
“We are also Bronze Award recipients of the Ministry Of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme working towards the Silver Award in due course.”
Stuart Glover, CEO of Morecambe FC Community Sports
The EFL and the EFL Trust earlier this summer – ahead of Armed Forces Day – invited members of the military and the Ministry of Defence to their joint signing of the Armed Forces Covenant.
In signing the covenant, both organisations seek to uphold the covenant’s principles, recognising the value serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families bring within the organisation and community by pledging their ongoing support to them.
“Members of the Armed Forces make a significant contribution to our country and we understand the issues that veterans and their family members face.
“We are proud to make a commit to share opportunities with the Armed Forces family, using football to bring people together for the greater good, and in an environment where they are treated fairly and equally and with an opportunity to thrive.”
Cathy Abraham, CEO of EFL Trust
“I served 10 years in the infantry with my local regiment. Throughout this time, football was a big part of army life – the connection between football and the armed forces has been going for a long time.
“Upon leaving the army I found it really difficult to settle back into civilian life but thanks to football, it helped me get to where I am today. I gained my coaching badges and got a full-time role with Stockport County Community Trust.
“We’re now looking at piloting our own programmes for the Armed Forces in the local area, where I can use my personal experience to help others from a similar background to me.”
Mark Ward from Stockport County Community Trust, who served as a solider and was awarded the Military Cross in 2010
Like Morecambe and other CCOs, many provide weekly support to local veterans using their stadiums as welcoming environments.
At Cardiff City FC, their Community Foundation’s Armed Forces Veterans Hub is a social isolation project that supports veterans who are at high risk of social isolation and loneliness. Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan has a veterans population of around 27,000 and 8% suffer from mental health issues including depression and anxiety.
Weekly online and face-to-face sessions provide structure and support for people to get together, connect and take part in a range of activities that improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Blackpool Community Trust go beyond Bloomfield Road and use their own facility at the Aspire Sports Hub as well as their popular weekly walk where gentle routes around the scenic grounds of Stanley Park are enjoyed.
“When we talk about armed forces veterans, typically we think of people aged 60 – 70 years of age but it is absolutely not just that age group. The people we are engaging with at Blackpool Community Trust are in their 20s and early thirties.
“While our provision primarily focuses on football activities, we also deliver support for things like housing benefits and mental and social health for each veteran and their family members.”
Ashley Hackett, CEO of Blackpool Community Trust
https://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/shutterstock_editorial_14188566g-scaled.jpg17062560Andrew Rudkinhttps://www.efltrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/efltrustlogo.pngAndrew Rudkin2023-11-10 16:22:562023-11-10 16:33:06United In Support For Our Armed Forces Community
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