The Football Foundation marked its 25th anniversary by launching a new five-year strategy aimed at addressing the growing needs of women's and girls' football in the UK. The charity, which has invested £1.3 billion into grassroots facility improvements since its inception in 2000, is committed to providing more accessible facilities for female players.
The foundation's new Game-Changing Strategy includes a focus on developing facilities specifically designed for the women's game, in partnership with local authorities and other community stakeholders. The goal is to deliver where need is greatest and impact strongest, particularly in areas where access to suitable facilities has been limited in the past.
Former England player Fara Williams attended the anniversary celebrations, highlighting the significant difference that modern facilities have made in her own playing career. "When I was younger, we had free facilities, but they were just open parks; we'd just turn up and play," she said. "It's unbelievable compared to what we had now."
Williams praised the foundation for its efforts to provide safe spaces for young girls to play football, saying that this is crucial for their development and confidence. She also emphasized the importance of promoting women's football, encouraging younger boys to see female players as equals who can compete alongside them.
The Football Foundation's new strategy reflects the charity's commitment to supporting the growth and development of women's and girls' football in the UK. With its focus on accessible facilities and community engagement, the foundation is well-positioned to address the growing demand for opportunities in this area.
The foundation's new Game-Changing Strategy includes a focus on developing facilities specifically designed for the women's game, in partnership with local authorities and other community stakeholders. The goal is to deliver where need is greatest and impact strongest, particularly in areas where access to suitable facilities has been limited in the past.
Former England player Fara Williams attended the anniversary celebrations, highlighting the significant difference that modern facilities have made in her own playing career. "When I was younger, we had free facilities, but they were just open parks; we'd just turn up and play," she said. "It's unbelievable compared to what we had now."
Williams praised the foundation for its efforts to provide safe spaces for young girls to play football, saying that this is crucial for their development and confidence. She also emphasized the importance of promoting women's football, encouraging younger boys to see female players as equals who can compete alongside them.
The Football Foundation's new strategy reflects the charity's commitment to supporting the growth and development of women's and girls' football in the UK. With its focus on accessible facilities and community engagement, the foundation is well-positioned to address the growing demand for opportunities in this area.