This week has seen the EFL and its Clubs celebrate the collective impact of Club community work across the league through the ‘Week of Action.’
The Week of Action aims to promote the far-reaching work of EFL clubs and community organisations who deliver tailored programmes to support the needs of local people, tackling some of society’s biggest challenges through targeted interventions.
In support of the campaign, Scott Parker made a special visit to Holly Grove Primary School in Burnley where Burnley FC in the Community’s disability programme, Limitless Clarets, is making a real difference.
Engaging with around 30 individuals annually in 2022, Limitless Clarets now connects with over 450 people each year, offering a safe and nurturing environment for young people to acquire new skills, grow as individuals, forge new friendships, and engage in free sporting activities five days a week.
Built on a collaborative approach, the programme works closely with specialist school provisions in the area to deliver inclusive interventions and provide comprehensive support for young people both inside and outside of school.
During the visit, Parker participated in a lively Q&A session with the children, who had prepared questions. He also took part in a paper aeroplane-making contest and joined in the sports session.
The day concluded with the children presenting him with a variety of handmade thank you cards, to show their appreciation.
“It’s been amazing,” said Parker. “I think we’ve visited a few places since we’ve been here in a short space of time, but what an incredible facility to be honest with you.
“Obviously, young kids with challenges in life and it has amazing facilities. We walked around the classrooms, saw they have done some exercises with the kids as well, and obviously experienced some ruthless questions along the way from some of them! So, yes, a special place and it opens your eyes a little bit to be honest. ”The Week of Action is a key moment in the season where all 72 Clubs across the EFL celebrate the impact football club’s have on people’s lives and Parker said it’s important for himself and the players to make these trips to see first hand the difference community programmes make.
“Some of these young kids probably only ever see me or these players on a TV or from afar, sitting in a stand watching them on a pitch from 100 meters away. So, to connect and feel that real presence and that support from us, which, you know, I’m a full advocate of really showing the appreciation, not just for the kids but for the teachers as well. These people are here, and they’re devoting every hour of what they’ve got in terms of helping and supporting.
“For these kids to bring a smile to their face and probably show a bit more of a human side, is why we’re here. They probably see you in a different light and hopefully they’d see me in a different light standing on a touch line.”
