Street Soccer are delighted to have been selected by Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust as one of their new 2026 Initiatives Partners.
This significant investment will enable Street Soccer to expand our off-pitch employa
bility support, targeting players over 25 facing complex barriers. Football makes up 30% of what we do, with the other 70% comprising a variety of off-pitch support – everything from specialist mental health provision, clothing, food, emotional support and access to education.
The Trust’s support will enable us to build on the success our existing Progressions Workers have had in Glasgow and Dundee, bringing new staff into Edinburgh, London and the Network. This holistic approach to employability works with players at their own pace, identifying goals and potential, providing person-centred support at every step of their journey.
The partnership will also fund new Street Soccer Academy Programmes, providing education and training in non-traditional settings, led by our player’s needs. Academy Programmes will make use of Street Soccer’s own accredited SCQF qualifications and work with partner organisations to deliver other workshops and training.
David Duke, Street Soccer Founder and CEO said: “We are delighted to be working alongside the Trust in this exciting expansion of our work supporting players on their journey to hope and happiness. The Pathways Project and the investment Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust are making will support our strategic focus on developing our ‘off pitch’ support, providing education and training, dedicated 1-1 support, and opportunities to progress into paid sessional work.
Kirsty Brownlie, Head of Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust and David Duke MBE, Founder & CEO of Street Soccer
“We know that lasting positive change is possible with the right team behind you. This partnership will unlock the potential within our players, in our team and in communities.”
Street Soccer and the Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust will be working together over the next 3 years to help create hope in a working future and opportunities to attain and sustain employment for adults facing complex barriers.
We’re very fortunate to work with fantastic funders and partners, many of whom have supported us for a number of years. It’s refreshing to see a major funder commit to significant partnerships focused on adults over 25 as so many employability programmes only cater to those aged 16-24.
Kirsty Brownlie, Head of the Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust, reflected: “Street Soccer’s strong community ethos and ability to create a safe, inclusive space are what truly set it apart. This provides the foundation for players to build confidence, develop new skills, and begin to break down the multiple barriers they face.
“Street Soccer understands what it takes not just to help people into work, but to support them to stay in meaningful employment. We’re proud to play a part in supporting this work, helping individuals progress into meaningful employment and contributing to positive change in their communities.”
Arran is one of the players in Edinburgh who will benefit from the Pathways Project. After overcoming many complex challenges in his young life, Arran returned to college at 27 to study for a HNC in Health and Social Care and has been volunteering at Street Soccer as part of his placement. Working with adults and young people with additional support needs, Arran has built his skills and confidence: “Age doesn’t define my ability and capabilities… I want to work in the care sector, I want to help people, I want to be given an opportunity to use my skill set.”
