Blackpool FC Community Trust aims to educate, motivate and inspire people of all ages to build a better life for themselves and unite communities all over Blackpool. The Blackpool FC Community Trust is the official charity to Blackpool Football Club, which provides a range of flagship programmes that inspire people from all walks of life to make a positive change.
With 36 members of dedicated and qualified full-time staff, as well as an additional 15 part-time members of staff, it delivers all its own coaching, educational programmes and personal development, ensuring people are given the opportunity to change their lives for the better.
The Trust works closely with its parent football club – Blackpool Football Club. An array of operations of Blackpool Football Club and Blackpool Football Club Community Trust are delivered in partnership including match-day activities and mid-week activities. The Trust is committed to developing a range of diverse community initiatives to give the best opportunities to the people of Blackpool and The Fylde Coast whilst using the profile and brand of Blackpool Football Club to the greatest effect.
Its vision is clear – ‘we want to support the local community to improve their lives, regardless of age, gender, race, religion or ability. We engage with all corners of the community to give everyone the opportunity to be inspired, develop their skills and provide support for issues that impact people’s lives’.
The Trust delivers over 60 different programmes to the local and wider community of Blackpool. Programmes are delivered in primary and secondary schools, local colleges, with local community groups, and within local wards. Children as young as three years old are targeted as well as groups of over 55s. Sessions take place with families, people with disabilities, and women and girls groups.
All projects are funded externally through a number of different streams, including the English Football League Trust, Premier League Community Fund, Sport England, Big Lottery, Football Foundation, local housing associations, NHS Blackpool and local councils as well as many more.