EFL Clubs Highlight Community Engagement During Week of Action

Millwall manager Neil Harris participated in a football coaching session alongside military veterans at the club’s training facility. A football club’s influence on its local community extends beyond the conclusion of a Saturday match and the departure of supporters. Throughout the country, the 72 clubs of the English Football League offer continuous support to local initiatives designed to assist individuals in need and foster positive societal development. Given that most EFL teams had no scheduled matches last week due to the international break, it presented an opportune moment to highlight some of the beneficial activities conducted off the field. Below is an overview of a few of the charitable efforts receiving support during the EFL’s Week of Action. During the international break, attention was directed towards activities away from the pitch. A report released this week indicated that EFL clubs are experiencing unprecedented demand to offer assistance to both individuals and community organizations. The report, titled ‘Measuring the Impact of EFL Clubs in the Community’, examined data from the 2022-23 and 2023-24 periods and was introduced as part of the EFL Week of Action. Data indicates that clubs and their associated charities conducted 54% more community activities and outreach programs in 2023-24 compared to 2021-22, accumulating a total of 890,878 hours. The 2023-24 season saw a record 1.1 million individuals participate in club community projects, marking an increase of over 30% compared to 2021-22. The influence and worth of community engagement throughout the EFL are substantial. Clubs and their charitable organizations have raised 10% more revenue for community investment since 2021-22, reaching a total of almost £111m, while the social value attributed to their activities is estimated at nearly £1.25bn, representing a 43% increase over the past two years. Although Bristol City did not have a match during the international break, manager Liam Manning still found himself on the sidelines, offering guidance. Manning observed first-team players Anis Mehmeti and Marcus McGuane actively participating in a Premier League Kicks session held at St Paul’s Community Sports Academy, as part of the EFL’s Week of Action. “It’s great to get out into the community and integrate with fans and see some terrific work which is going on,” Manning stated to BBC Radio Bristol. He added, “I think it’s massive, the position we are in, the responsibility it carries, to give back, to integrate and show how important the game is. Who knows where the next Anis Mehmeti will be found?” Manning further commented, “When you look at what the game does from a health and social perspective, it gives so much, I love coming out – it’s such a special thing that can give so much.” Mehmeti mentioned that he spent his youth playing football in enclosed pitches similar to those at St Paul’s after school, adding: “It’s always good to come to these places. It’s a humbling experience. I was once one of these boys. It made me the player I am today.” He concluded, “I really like these type of experiences. It shows what a great club we are and what a great city it is. It’s something I cherish.” Bristol City players Scott Twine and Luke McNally engaged with the Robins Foundation’s Youth Council, which comprises young individuals who have participated in foundation initiatives focused on enhancing the lives of local residents. Ashton Gate also welcomed participants of the Foundation’s complimentary Fit Robins lifestyle program, where Haydon Roberts and Lewis Thomas were present to gain insights and interact with supporters. The activities organized by clubs’ community trusts extend their benefits beyond devoted football enthusiasts. Even something as straightforward as an advertisement in a vintage football program has the potential to trigger memories for care home residents, connect isolated individuals through shared interests, or even penetrate the cognitive challenges of dementia. Hull City’s Tigers Trust has observed that its Forever Tigers events, which concentrate on club memorabilia and heritage, accomplish precisely these outcomes. Catherine Bishop, CEO of the Tigers Trust, informed BBC Radio Humberside: “The EFL Week of