SPFL Trust
Social Inclusion
We want to deliver 'Festive Friends' events for lonely local people, offering a gift, a warm meal, and friendship when they need it most.
About this cause
The SPFL Trust is an independent registered charity associated with the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL). Working in partnership with Scotland's 42 SPFL clubs we promote, support, fund and administer activities which help meet identified social needs for people in Scotland. Festive Friends delivered by SPFL Clubs offers something special for those suffering the effects of isolation at a time of year when they need it most. A Christmas lunch, the means to get there, but most importantly the companionship and support often so desperately needed for elderly, vulnerable people. Our purpose is to use football's unique presence to assist Scotland's people to achieve their goals and improve their life chances. Professional football clubs work directly with local communities.
How this cause brings people in the community together
In 2017 Festive Friends engaged with 755 participants, 31 SPFL Clubs participated and 3 Clubs opened their doors on Christmas Day. Guests come from a range of programmes nominated by local authorities, referring charities, or other club partners. As numbers exceeded funding in 2017, Clubs worked with local partners to reach more than funding could cover bringing communities together.