Free Kits for Youth Football Clubs

10.16.06am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 19th Feb 2008

Schools as well as youth sports clubs are extended an offer that could award them with free sports kits. The Football Foundation's Kit Scheme entitles all under-18 football teams and adults with disabilities to receive a voucher of up to £400 to buy football kits and/or equipment.

Commenting on the kit scheme, Tom Brake, Lib Dem MP for Carshalton and Wallington said, "I am really keen that local schools and clubs take advantage of the chance of getting new kit.

"I hope also that local clubs not only get new strips but apply for larger awards so that we can upgrade our football facilities locally. I am urging all schools, sports clubs, youth clubs, football teams and local authorities in the area to get onto the Football Foundation website (www.footballfoundation.org.uk) and download the application form in order to take advantage of the funding opportunity on offer."

2,000 awards are available every year. As well as being able to apply for a new voucher every three years, clubs and schools may apply for an additional one, as long as one application is for a girls' team, and the other is for a boys' team.

The Football Foundation is the biggest sports charity in the UK. With the Premier League, the Football Association and the Government each giving £15m a year, there is an annual budget of £45m available. This can go towards building new changing rooms or all-weather pitches, starting community schemes, or even providing a brand new football strip and equipment for junior teams. Since its launch in July 2000, the Football Foundation has supported more than 4,000 projects worth over £550m.