Football Foundation preparing for ‘biggest year ever’

The Football Foundation expects 2024 to be the “biggest ever year of support for grassroots clubs across England”.

One of the UK’s largest sports charities, the organisation had a record-breaking year in 2023, during which it delivered £76 million to improve grassroots facilities across England.

It is looking to exceed that figure in 2024, as it looks to hit a number of significant milestones.

These include opening the first Football Foundation PlayZone – a small-sided pitch designed by and for the local communities in which they’re located. PlayZone funding will be focused on four main groups facing the greatest inequalities – lower socio-economic groups; women and girls; ethnically diverse communities; and disabled people and people with long-term health conditions.

Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, said: “This year, the Football Foundation will provide more great places to play than ever before.

“Good quality facilities not only have a transformative impact on physical and mental wellbeing, but also play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities from the roots up.

“Thanks to the support we receive from our partners at the Premier League, The FA and Government, the Football Foundation is ready to deliver the facility improvements that every community needs and deserves.”