Charlie Watts: A Volunteer Champion Empowering Bolton’s Community

/in , /by

Volunteering is more than just giving time—it’s about building confidence, learning new skills, and making a real difference in the community. Charlie Watts embodies this spirit through his journey with Bolton Wanderers in the Community (BWitC), earning recognition as an EFL Community Hero for 2025.

Charlie first joined Bolton Wanderers in the Community through their ASPIRE employability programme, a 10-week initiative designed to support young people aged 16+ in Bolton, helping them gain the skills they need for a brighter future. Led by Employability Project Officer Sarah Moraes, ASPIRE offers team-building activities, practical skill sessions, and personal development opportunities.

Reflecting on his experience, Charlie shared:

“Before joining the programme, I struggled with anxiety and a lack of self-belief. I wanted to build my confidence and improve my knowledge of interviews and CV writing. Through ASPIRE, I participated in cooking sessions, a team-building day at the Anderton Centre, and activities that helped me strengthen my interpersonal skills. I gained a better understanding of how my skills could support my future career.”

Charlie’s journey didn’t stop there. His passion for helping others led him to volunteer as a Digital Champion, assisting residents in developing their digital literacy. As part of BWitC’s Digital Skills Hub, he is now helping people connect with services, peers, and opportunities online, ensuring that no one in Bolton is left behind due to the digital divide.

Looking ahead, Charlie hopes to continue his training and build on his experiences, showing that volunteering is more than just helping—it’s a journey toward a brighter future.

500 Hours of Change: How Volunteering with Bristol City Robins Foundation Transformed Paul’s Life

/in , /by

Six years ago, Paul joined a Primary Stars project in South Bristol with Bristol City Foundation as a quiet and reserved young boy. Struggling with confidence and a prominent stammer, he found it difficult to connect with his peers and fully engage in lessons. But everything changed when he discovered the power of football and community.

Paul became involved in  Premier League Kicks sessions, where he found support and encouragement from staff and fellow participants. As his confidence grew, so did his willingness to engage. Conversations became easier, his stammer lessened, and he started forming meaningful friendships.

With this newfound confidence, Paul began showing leadership qualities—arriving early to volunteer, supporting younger participants, and assisting with team management. His dedication extended beyond the sessions as he took on roles at holiday camps and joined the Youth Council, where he contributed to the Protect the Planet social action project.

Paul’s commitment to giving back is remarkable. Over the last two years, he has volunteered more than 500 hours, leaving a lasting impact on countless young people in his community. His efforts were recognized when he was invited to the prestigious Football Black List Event, where he met inspiring African and Caribbean figures in football.

This moment proved to be a turning point. Since attending the event, Paul has become even more motivated, continuing to expand his leadership role.

This summer, Paul will take part in work experience with the Foundation, gaining insight into the various projects we run. He has been on an incredible journey—from overcoming personal barriers to becoming an inspiration for others.

 

Keith Ward’s Dedication Powers Carlisle United’s ‘United in Memories’ Programme

/in , /by

Since its launch in September 2024, United in Memories, a dementia-friendly programme developed by Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, has quickly become a vital support system for people affected by dementia in North Cumbria.

At the heart of the initiative is Keith Ward, a dedicated volunteer and lifelong supporter of Carlisle United, whose personal experience with dementia inspired him to help bring the project to life. Keith’s passion and perseverance have been instrumental in its success.

“It was something I thought we needed to do as a fan, having been there with my mum who had dementia, and also with a friend I used to attend matches with,” Keith explained. “I think it’s important not just for people with dementia, but for their families and carers too – they need support just as much.”

United in Memories provides a safe, welcoming space for those living with dementia and their carers to engage in meaningful, stimulating activities. From bingo and quizzes to sharing memories sparked by club memorabilia such as shirts, scarves and programmes, the sessions encourage connection, reminiscence, and joy.

Thanks to the commitment of Keith and the wider CUFC CST team, the programme now regularly supports over 50 participants and has outgrown two venues due to demand.

“It’s one of the best things I’ve been involved with,” said Keith. “There was nothing like this when I was supporting my mum – it’s great to be able to give something back. I’m really proud to be a part of it.”

Finding Strength Through Community at Mansfield Town Community Trust’s ‘Come for a Kickabout?’

/in , /by

*The name in this article has been changed to keep anonymity*

Former military serviceman, Jeff began attending Mansfield Town Community Trust’s ‘Come for a Kickabout’ sessions after facing a particularly difficult period in his life. Living with combat-related PTSD, the emotional impact of his military experiences had begun to take it’s toll on his personal relationships.

Jeff’s friend, who was already a participant at the sessions recommended the group, encouraging him to join a space where open conversation and shared experiences were welcomed. This opportunity came at a crucial time, offering him chance to connect with others who understood the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life.

‘Come for a Kick About’ is a football and talk session for men over the age of 18, it’s delivered by Mansfield Town Community Trust with men’s mental health group ‘Enlighten the Shadows’. The programme aims to provide a safe space for men to open up about their struggles whislt engaging in physical activity.

Through participating in the sessions, Jeff has found the courage to speak openly about his struggles and past experiences—something he previously found difficult. Embracing the mindset that “it’s okay not to be okay” has been a powerful step towards self-acceptance.

Having always seen himself as resilient due to his military training, the sessions have helped him develop a new kind of resilience—one that supports him even on the toughest days. Knowing he is not alone in his struggles has given him the strength to bounce back more quickly from mental health setbacks. The shared understanding within the group offers reassurance and solidarity, providing a safe space to be vulnerable without judgement.

Before joining the group, he had become increasingly isolated and withdrawn. Over time, the sessions have sparked a gradual change in his social habits, encouraging him to connect with others and rebuild his social confidence. Stepping out of his comfort zone, he’s making conscious efforts to reconnect with the wider community.

The physical element of the sessions has also had a profound effect. Jeff has rekindled his love for training and physical activity and is now working on building a home gym—an exciting personal project that supports his physical health while providing mental stimulation and a renewed sense of purpose.

Jeff credits the group for helping him better manage stress and anxiety. For someone living with PTSD, moments of relief are invaluable. The sessions offer a break from the constant noise in his mind, providing a few hours of peace, distraction, and camaraderie. Being surrounded by people who are willing to listen and offer support makes a huge difference during difficult times.

His story is a testament to the quiet strength found in showing up and speaking out.

Gamechangers with Wigan Athletic Community Trust helped Martin return to confidence and his career

/in , /by

Martin was one of 10 adults identified to take part in the pilot of the Gamechangers Mental Health programme. Gamechangers utilised a trauma-informed approach with an emphasis on peer support, physical activity and the empowerment of individuals. 

Martin had been struggling with low mood and confidence and described himself as close to having a breakdown following the stresses of his job as a funeral director. 

Martin said: “Two weeks before Christmas, I went to take my own life. I was struggling with low mood and was not motivated to do much. My lifestyle was lacking activeness, and I was forced to take a step back in my career due to my battles with mental health. 

Through joining the Gamechangers programme, Martin was able to engage with a group of like-minded individuals who had experienced similar struggles and draw on their experiences and coping strategies to help him work through and progress beyond the issues that had been adding to his stresses and anxieties.  

Martin had previously struggled to be physically active, but through the programme was able to regularly engage with exercise and use it as a tool to improve both his physical and mental health. 

“All the classes within the gym programme have been interesting. In particular, I enjoyed participating in the rock-climbing session as this helped me overcome my fears of heights and challenged my mental resilience. I had never done this activity before, so it was one of many that I have enjoyed and has given me the confidence to try out new activities. My physical health has massively improved, and I have noticed a big improvement in my social anxiety.” 

While attending the Gamechangers programme, Martin was encouraged to also attend the Andy’s Man Club sessions that are held weekly at The Brick Community Stadium. This allowed him to access an additional form of peer support alongside the support he was already receiving at the Community Trust.  

 “Meeting new people and inspiring others to just go for it has helped my anxiety and I have received comments from people praising how well I look since starting the programme and how my confidence has grown over the weeks of participating. 

Martin has gone from strength to strength since completing the programme summarised the impact of the programme by saying:  

“The programme has brought my self-confidence back. The programme has encouraged me to improve my fitness levels and given me the courage to finally complete my five-year plan; this has led to a more active lifestyle and given me the confidence I needed to step forward within my career and continue to do the job I love.” 

The Power of Support: Michael’s Journey with Argyle Community Trust

/in , /by

Michael, an Argyle supporter for 14 years, has been supported by Argyle Community Trust since being introduced by his brother to our Active Through Football sessions, a social football programme aimed at increasing physical activity and improving mental wellbeing. 

Michael was unemployed at the time of his referral, and it was not long after the pandemic. This gave him an opportunity to get out of the house and meet people.  

Micheal became lost around this time and felt like he didn’t have a purpose. He disengaged with the programme and became homeless, was a missing person for a week, and began to have suicidal thoughts. 

A timely intervention from Active Through Football lead Trevor, who also acts as a mentor to support participants, often calling or messaging especially when participants stop engaging, got Michael back on track.

Michael returned to the Active Through Football programme and began taking part in the Mindfullness Wellbeing Walk in partnership with mental health charity Devon Mind. With the support of Trevor and other participants Michael found a place to stay and they gradually helped him build back up again. 

Tragically, Michael’s father passed away suddenly and unexpectedly; someone he loved deeply and spoke to every single day. This affected Michael profoundly, and this began a steep decline in his mental wellbeing. 

Calls from Trevor and the team provided Michael with the support and encouragement to get back involved in sessions to support him through this extremely difficult time. Michael was amazed at the response, something he hadn’t experienced before. 

Michael’s confidence and mental wellbeing began to improve. He was introduced to Pledge 35, the volunteering aspect of Project 35, a social impact initiative aimed at reducing poverty. 

The football sessions, walks and volunteering gave Michael structure, a support network, friendships, and improved confidence. Michael now feels there is someone there for him and he has purpose. 

Michael’s empathy and character has meant he has become a key member at all sessions, leading on volunteering and acting as a friend and mentor to others on the football sessions and walks and he has become an incredibly popular member of the team. 

Michael said: “In most cities, the football team is the hub. The Community Trust brings a lot of communities together, and a lot of experiences together. 

“The support I have received is something I am really thankful for.” 

Michael now has the confidence to go to match days at Home Park, something he had never done before, and admits his mental strength has come a long way and he is now more mentally resilient, doing things he never thought he would do, being active, and meeting different types of people in the community. 

Pushing Back Against Parkinson’s: Eric’s Journey with Shrewsbury Town Foundation

/in , , /by

Eric first became involved with the Shrewsbury Town Foundation after attending a Parkinson’s branch meeting in Shrewsbury, where he heard about Exercise on Referral. It was through this programme that he was able to take part in regular exercise sessions, specifically tailored for each person’s own needs, giving him support with his Parkinson’s.

Since joining the programme, Eric has become a regular participant in a range of activities, from boxing and circuit training to gym work and cycling. He praises the Foundation’s team for their inclusive approach, making each session adaptable for everyone, regardless of their abilities.

For Eric, these sessions have made a tremendous difference.

Attending three walking football sessions and a Parkinson’s-specific exercise class each week has improved his strength, balance, coordination, and mobility.

Beyond the physical benefits, Eric values the social aspect, having formed lasting friendships with others in the group. “I would be completely lost without it,” he says, reflecting on the profound impact these programmes have had on his life.

Eric is also active in sessions run by Shrewsbury’s Parkinson’s UK branch, finding the variety essential in keeping him engaged.

His message to anyone considering joining? “Give it a go! Exercise is just as important as medication. Push back against Parkinson’s—you won’t regret it!”.

Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football participants united by strength

/in , , /by

The Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football provision started as a weekly one-hour football session but it soon became the hub for those with neurological conditions to unite together.

Now hosting around 15 regular attendees, the team call themsleves the North East Parkies United with participants travelling from around the North-East to be part of it.

“After coming along for a session, I immediately loved the community spirt and physical activity,” said participant Adrian Wrigley who travels from Billingham to Sunderland weekly to take part.

“I was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago and I have heavy tremors on my left-hand side and starting on the right.

“I’ve actually had some symptoms for the last ten years or so undiagnosed.

“It’s progressing, but I’m trying to stay as active and positive as possible. In keeping your body moving and the neurological network active, it can help slow the decline.

“There’s so many positive benefits to these sessions, I’ve never looked back really.”

Following the hour of football games and drills, participants head to the Beacon of Light café to socialise.

Adrian also enjoys this aspect of the programme, adding: “We always have a coffee and what becomes a bit of a whinge together.

“We match up our symptoms, support networks, and talk about activities going on.

“The social aspects, keeping your mental wellbeing, just having a chat and cracking on with the team, is really important.

“Often with Parkinson’s, your voice is a muscle that if you don’t use it, you lose it.”

“We have now formed a team, North East Parkies United,” Adrian explained about the upcoming competition.

“The ‘United’ is because we all come from different teams, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Sunderland, and we even allow Hartlepool.”

The North East Parkies United team will head to St. George’s Park on Saturday 19 April to compete together for the first time.

Paul Campbell was one of the early members of the programme at the beginning of 2022.

“I didn’t envisage this at all when I first came,” he said on the development of the group.

“I’m very proud of everyone who comes along, because they’ve all contributed. We help each other out, and it has been fantastic to now form an official team.”

Paul, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2010, has been managing his condition by keeping active through Foundation of Light’s Neurological Walking Football.

“It makes a hell of a difference,” he added.

“For one thing, it just takes your mind off everything, you forget that you have Parkinson’s when you are on the pitch.

“It’s a great group of people. I look forward to spending time with them every Tuesday and I’m looking forward to competing together.”

 

Rachel Brown-Finnis inspires future female footballers at Burnley FC Women’s juniors event

/in , /by

The Leisure Box was abuzz with excitement as former England goalkeeper, Rachel Brown-Finnis, paid a special visit to the BFC Women’s Juniors football teams. Rachel was introduced to players and ‘future talent’ in the female football pathway of Burnley FC in the Community.

Rachel, who hails from Burnley and went to Nelson & Colne College, has been a lifelong supporter of the club and brought along some of her cherished football memorabilia to show. Among the items were her first-ever goalkeeper shirt and several of the England caps she received during her tenure. This was a rare and amazing opportunity for the players to see (and even touch!) the artifacts, providing a tangible connection to her journey and amazing achievements in the sport. She spoke about her career history and offered a glimpse into the life of a professional footballer.

“To be able to show of my love of football, to share some of it, the highs and the lows with those girls, has been a real privilege.”

Players were given the opportunity to ask Rachel questions, like who her childhood inspirations were (goalkeeper legend Peter Schmeichel), and later got involved in a quick-fire competition, demonstrating how to handle pressure both on and off the pitch!

Rachel also took the time to observe the training sessions for the U10s, U12s, U14s, and U16s teams; her presence on the sidelines gave the players the opportunity to showcase their skills. After watching several sessions, she was able to provide valuable feedback and encouragement to the young players.

When asked about the changes and progress made to the Women’s game, Rachel said, “It’s so heartwarming knowing that 30 years ago when I was a little kid, there was very limited opportunity… now you’re in the “hotbed” of the places to be in the country!”

Recently announced as a Community Ambassador for the EFL, when asked about her role Rachel spoke of the immense power football can have in communities:

“The power of football is sometimes immeasurable, sometimes measurable. But it empowers. It draws strength in people when certain people don’t think that they’ve got that strength. … football can really make that significant difference.

When I got the opportunity to become the Community Ambassador for the EFL…having been immersed in those programmes at work through Everton, it was something I was really passionate to get started on, to see the breadth and depth the programmes across the country, from all 72 Football League clubs”

Becky Clough, Female Football Development Officer at Burnley FC in the Community, reflected on the event and the importance of role models like Rachel, “It’s been a great evening and a privilege to have Rachel Brown Finnis here at The Leisure Box…It’s been an amazing experience just to listen to her story, get to know her as a person and the passion that she has… it’s also been great inspiration for the girls….it’s so empowering!”

Training Ground with Leyton Orient Trust helps Ethan ‘find his purpose.’

/in , /by

Prior to enrolling on the Training Ground programme with Leyton Orient Trust, Ethan faced numerous difficulties including mental health and a lack of opportunity.

Ethan experienced low motivation and confidence which left him struggling to find his why in every day. This led him to quit playing football, the one thing Ethan was deeply passionate about.

However, the Training Ground programme gave him the support, skills and confidence to feel more at ease with his chances of going into employment once he has finished his studies.

EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

Throughout the course Ethan actively engaged with specific activities being a highlight including volunteering with coaches and the CV workshop.

Since completing the course, Ethan has seen a remarkable shift in his life. He now studies at college on a course he loves and can manage his mental health. As well as this, Ethan is now back and enjoying football once more, whilst actively looking for a part time job.

Ethan states: “I have found purpose in my life.”