SWFCCP celebrates inclusion through football during Hate Crime Awareness Week

To mark Hate Crime Awareness Week (10th to 17th October), participants from Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme (SWFCCP) took part in a football tournament hosted by Club Doncaster Foundation, bringing people together through sport and promoting a message of inclusion, respect and belonging.

The tournament provided an opportunity for participants to connect with others, enjoy the game and celebrate the positive role football can play in bringing communities together.

Paul Hebda, Youth and Integration Manager at SWFCCP said: “Football has a unique ability to bring people together, break down barriers and help people feel part of their community.

"Hate Crime Awareness Week is an important reminder that everyone deserves to feel welcome, respected and safe, regardless of their background. It’s great to see our participants getting involved and enjoying the game together, showing how football can help build connections and promote inclusion.”

Among those taking part was Abu, who completed a six-week programme with SWFCCP’s Employability team over the summer, and Mohammed, who was referred through the Leaving on a Positive programme. Their involvement highlights how football can help build friendships, strengthen connections and open up new opportunities.

SWFCCP continues to support inclusion through its weekly 'Football Welcomes' sessions at UMIX and Ponds Forge Leisure Centre, providing a welcoming space for people to meet and play football in a safe and welcoming environment.

The Tuesday and Wednesday Football Welcomes sessions are now funded by the Premier League Foundation Fans Fund, helping SWFCCP continue to create opportunities for people to connect through the game.

Through initiatives like these, SWFCCP is proud to support a football community where everyone feels welcome and discrimination has no place.

For more information contact Paul on paul.hebda@swfccp.co.uk