Barnsley FC Community Trust Annual Conference – A Celebration of Community Impact
Last week, Barnsley FC Community Trust hosted its Annual Conference, bringing together local businesses, community leaders, and individuals to celebrate the Trust’s transformative work across the Barnsley community.
The Trust deliver over 31,000 hours of delivery to more than 40,000 participants. This work has an incredible social value of over £16m.
The event featured inspiring keynote speeches, including Debbie Cook, Director of Community at the EFL, who highlighted the vital role of EFL’s community initiatives and the powerful impact of Football Club charities nationwide. Cllr Sir Steve Houghton also addressed attendees, offering insights into upcoming developments within the Barnsley borough.A highlight of the day was the engaging Q&A sessions with Barnsley FC’s CEO and Head Coach, who spoke passionately about the “power of the badge” and the club’s commitment to supporting the Trust’s mission. Their discussion emphasized how player and club involvement continue to drive meaningful change in the community.
Attendees were also moved by powerful, real-life stories shared by programme participants, showcasing the life-changing support they’ve received through the Trust’s initiatives. One participant, Christine Barber, took part in the Trust’s Fit Reds programme, Christine explains:
“I joined the 12-week Fit Reds programme after a few colleagues encouraged me to sign up. During the first week, we had health checks, and I was shocked to discover I had high blood pressure. That moment was a real wake-up call, it made me realise I needed to make some serious lifestyle changes.
Through the programme, I gained a better understanding of nutrition and exercise, and over time, my blood pressure naturally improved. But the benefits didn’t stop there. Completing the 12 weeks not only helped me physically it had a huge impact on my mental wellbeing too.
That’s why I decided to keep going. I joined the weekly Healthy Minds sessions, and I absolutely love them. They’ve become a vital part of my routine and continue to support my overall health and happiness.”
Throughout the day, guests had the opportunity to network, explore the Trust’s diverse programmes in greater depth, and connect with others who share a passion for community development.
