Street Soccer recently brought together community organisations and local businesses from across Fife for it’s Community Network event.
The event was created to celebrate the impact of Street Soccer’s work in local communities while also exploring opportunities for future collaboration and support. Through the power of football, the charity continues to create positive change for people affected by social exclusion, offering a safe space, renewed purpose, and pathways to new opportunities.
More than 50 representatives attended the event, which began with a networking session followed by a series of engaging discussions. Gary Britton, Chief Operating Officer, and Stuart Lovell, Network Manager, shared insights into Street Soccer’s mission and the wider impact of the Street Soccer Network across Scotland.
A key highlight of the afternoon was a Q&A session featuring long-standing Street Soccer players, who spoke openly about their personal journeys and the transformative impact Street Soccer has had on their lives. They shared how the programme helped them rebuild confidence, regain a sense of purpose, and reconnect with their communities. Roger Gardiner from Kingdom Works also joined the discussion, outlining the support available to players, including opportunities to gain forklift and dump truck licences, along with a range of other employability and personal development benefits.
The event also included a conversation between Stuart Lovell and former professional footballer Marvin Andrews, alongside contributions from Partnerships Coordinator Robert Whiteside, who shared practical insights into how local organisations can get involved and support the initiative.
Representatives from Five Gully Foundation, Clad Up Project and Phoenix Futures Fife were also in attendance, highlighting the strength of partnership already working across the region.
Since launching in April 2024, Street Soccer in Fife has delivered 458 football sessions, engaging 164 registered players and achieving 7,149 attendances. Fifteen players have progressed to achieve a Street Soccer SCQF Level 5 qualification.
In addition, 368 hours of wraparound support has been provided to participants. These sessions form part of the wider Network Programme, which brings football and support services together to help people move forward.
The development of the Network Programme in Fife has been made possible through support from The Hunter Foundation, alongside ongoing backing from the Scottish Government.
Looking ahead, Street Soccer’s first Women’s session in Fife will launch on Monday 1st June at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre. The new Women’s Programme, delivered as part of the Street Soccer Network, has been made possible through funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.
To enquire about how you or your organisation can get involved with Street Soccer, email us at info@streetsoccer.org.uk
