The impactful story of football and community was showcased in London earlier today at the EFL’s ‘Community Changemakers – inspiring and impacting communities’ event at the Victory Services Club in Marble Arch.
Since the Football League began in 1888, Clubs have held a privileged and prestigious place in the heart of communities. Today, more than 135 years later, Clubs are as important as they ever have been to the respective towns and cities they serve across England and Wales, delivering greater impact than ever before.
Through its charitable arm, EFL in the Community, previously named EFL Trust, the League has made tremendous strides in supporting communities both economically and socially, and now with a refreshed vision and focus, the aim is to build on these foundations via a new community strategy which was launched during the event.
The EFL in the Community strategy for 2024-2029 outlines the EFL’s commitment to enhancing its impact in communities, ensuring it continues to evolve and change lives for the better.
EFL in the Community Strategy document
The strategy sets out how EFL in the Community will be the greatest supporter of the League’s network of 72 CCOs, collaborating, leading and serving so that Clubs can continue to deliver crucial community work across the country, and that the work receives the recognition, resources and amplification it deserves.
The event was hosted by Sky Sports News presenter, Bela Shah and attended by guests including; Clubs, Club Community Organisations, members of the EFL and EFL in the Community Boards, partners, Members of Parliament and participants from Club community programmes.
Individuals from Club community programmes that have had their lives positively impacted as a result of their local football Club shared their personal stories with guests, further highlighting the power of football as a force for good.
Rick Parry, EFL Chair, said: “It is the football and community togetherness that continues to win the hearts and minds of fans up and down the country. We have that beating heart that feeds communities 365 days a year, and with almost a million people engaged in activity, the scale is unprecedented.
“In recent years, the need to address health inequalities, social connectedness, educational and employment barriers and cost of living struggles has increased our collective responsibility to support communities. The new strategy demonstrates how we plan to lead, collaborate and serve, ensuring that community is at the centre of everything we do.”
Sean Daly, MCT CEO said: “It’s great to see all the great work highlighted in the latest EFL in the Community’s Strategy Launch.
“The trust is committed to giving opportunities in our community and it's great to see this is replicated up and down the country.”
