Community Foundation NI: The IFA Inclusive Clubs Women’s Programme – New Needs

Overview

Background

This new IFA Inclusive Clubs Programme provides grants of up to £1000 for football clubs who are developing a disability or women’s section, and who wish to encourage participation from everyone in society, particularly those most marginalised, and including the BME community, as well as those with a disability.

The Coronavirus has presented a significant challenge for Northern Ireland and the sporting sector. As we move out of lockdown we’re all aware that coronavirus is still with us and will continue to affect the way many of us live their lives. It will require significant changes to how we function as a society in the medium to longer term, and how IFA continue to encourage and support and develop sport.

The Inclusive Clubs New Needs Funding Programme will support Women’s Clubs to respond to this crisis, addressing the new needs appearing as a result of the Coronavirus for football clubs, and where restrictions mean finding new ways of meeting continuing to support development of the women’s clubs. The aim of the fund is to enable clubs to continue to play and develop the game, safely.

Who can apply?

Applications are invited from eligible Women’s Clubs (excluding NIFL teams) – Mainstream Clubs who are starting or developing an already existing Women’s section.

Size of Grant:

Grants available: Up to £1,000

What can be supported?

• Capital costs associated with implementing new systems and procedures, which may include provision of PPE to enable safe playing, and to support the club to continue to operate in different ways safely.
• Additional core costs such as light that may be incurred, to enable games to take place.
• Support to continue provision of coaching, and planning tournaments, including payment of pitch fees, league fees, trophy presentations.

Notes:

• All receipts must match the funding awarded at the end of the funding period for any claim to be valid.
• They will particularly reward clubs who can demonstrate clear policy against racism and sectarianism and links with BME participation. This should be clear and detailed within the Equality Policy and added as a supporting document to the online application.