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Bloomsbury Football is a London-based charity dedicated to providing accessible, inclusive football opportunities to young people, particularly those from underprivileged and diverse backgrounds. Founded in 2018 by Charlie Hyman, the organization uses football as a tool to improve physical health, mental well-being, and social cohesion among participants.[1]
History
editBloomsbury Football was founded in 2018 to address the lack of affordable, high-quality football opportunities for children in London. The charity's first session, held in Camden Town, engaged four young people with minimal resources. Since then, Bloomsbury Football has grown significantly, impacting over 5,000 young people weekly by 2023.[2][3]
In 2024, Bloomsbury Football announced that former Manchester United CEO, Ed Woodward, had joined as a trustee, adding to its leadership and commitment to expanding its impact.[4]
Mission and vision
editBloomsbury Football's mission is to create equal opportunities for young people to engage in football, regardless of socioeconomic background. The organization envisions using football to inspire, educate, and support youth in becoming resilient, confident individuals who contribute positively to their communities.[5]
The charity received public praise from the UK Prime Minister in 2023, who stated, "Bloomsbury Football exemplifies how grassroots initiatives can transform communities by creating opportunities and fostering inclusion."[6]
Programs
editCommunity programs
editBloomsbury Football runs free or low-cost sessions in over 30 schools, nurseries, and housing estates across London, focusing on areas with high levels of deprivation. These programs promote physical activity and provide safe spaces for children to learn and grow.[7]
Girls' Super League
editThis initiative offers entry-level football leagues for girls, fostering participation and confidence among female athletes. The program engages over 1,500 girls weekly and eliminates access barriers by providing a centralized location for matches.[8]
Refugee and asylum seeker support
editBloomsbury's Refugee Program supports over 100 young people, providing football sessions and English language learning for newly arrived families. Participants come from diverse backgrounds, including Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Iran.[9]
Impact
editBloomsbury Football has been credited with improving participants' physical and mental well-being:
- 91% of parents reported improved mental well-being in their children.
- 84% reported better physical health.
- 93% of young people made friends through the programs.[5]
The charity's work aligns with national standards, such as Sport England's "Sporting Futures" framework, to measure long-term outcomes.[5]
Collaborations and partnerships
editBloomsbury Football collaborates with organizations like Nike and LaLiga to enhance its programs. These partnerships include hosting events, providing resources for underserved communities, and promoting gender equity through sports.[10]
Recognition
editBloomsbury Football has been featured in major media outlets, including The Guardian, Forbes, and Sky Sports, highlighting its role in youth development and social impact.[1][2][11]
References
edit- ^ a b "Bloomsbury Football: Providing Football and Fun for Young Londoners". Forbes. 21 November 2023. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ a b "'Bigger and bigger': Lionesses' march is inspiring the next generation". The Guardian. 27 July 2022. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Bloomsbury Football: Why Nike and Keir Starmer love London 'coaching for all' charity". City AM. 26 July 2022. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Ed Woodward joins Bloomsbury Football as trustee". Behind Sport. 10 April 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ a b c "Bloomsbury Football Foundation Impact Report 2024" (PDF). Bloomsbury Football Foundation. 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Prime Minister praises Bloomsbury Football for grassroots impact". BBC News. 1 December 2023. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Bloomsbury Football Providing Pathway For Girls To Emulate Lionesses". Forbes. 1 February 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Bloomsbury Football: How a grassroots charity is using the power of football to build hope". Big Issue. 24 August 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Ukrainian teenagers on refugee football programme share predictions for Euros". The Independent. 20 June 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Red Cards and Period Dramas". The Athletic Women's Football Podcast. October 2022. Retrieved 9 December 2024.
- ^ "Sky Sports for World Refugee Day". Sky Sports. 27 June 2024. Retrieved 9 December 2024.