COMMUNITY TRUST | Funding from The FA paves the way for new disability football opportunities

Footballers living with disabilities in the Chester area are set to benefit from a significant boost in competitive opportunities after Chester FC Community Trust were awarded a £3,000 Grow the Game grant.

The scheme, which is funded by The Football Association and delivered by the Football Foundation, will enable the Community Trust to create two new pandisability teams for U16s boys and U16s girls.

The Grow the Game scheme sees grants awarded to community football clubs wishing to create new teams, especially amongst under-represented groups.

This year, funding was made available for clubs looking to create new female and disability football teams, which can assist towards the costs of FA coaching courses; FA league affiliation costs; referees’ fees; first aid kits; football kit and equipment.

The grant will extend the Community Trust’s disability provision, which currently includes a partnership with Derwen College and two adult mental health and social inclusion teams.

Jim Green, CEO of Chester FC Community Trust, said: “Thanks to The FA and the Football Foundation, we will be able to address a lack of opportunities for young people with a disability to play football and create two new teams under the Chester FC banner.

“Weekly pan-disability sessions will be launching in September for U16s with the aim of entering boys and girls teams in the Cheshire Ability Counts League and to support young players in progressing on The FA’s disability talent pathway.

“We would encourage anyone interested in taking part in the new sessions or potential partners to get in touch and help us reach as many players as possible.”