“The difference this grant makes cannot be underestimated.”
Those are the words of Michael Colquhoun, head of Community and Welfare Inclusion, when speaking about a recent award from the Veterans’ Foundation to Burnley FC in the Community (BFCitC).
The official charity of the Premier League football club, Burnley FC, BFCitC runs specific events to support the local veterans community, including breakfast clubs, social sessions, fitness groups, workshops and bowls.
A recent Veterans’ Foundation grant will enable BFCitC to continue to provide these essential services.
“We are extremely grateful to the Veterans’ Foundation for their generous grant towards supporting veterans who engage with Burnley FC in the Community,” said Michael.
“The grant will enable us to continue our varied support for veterans across Burnley, Pendle and East Lancashire and adds crucial sustainability to what we offer. The difference this grant makes cannot be underestimated.
“Thank you to the Veterans’ Foundation for their fantastic support.”
How does Burnley FC help veterans?
Burnley FC's Veterans Football Project allows those who have served to stay fit, socialise and gives them the opportunity to represent Burnley FC in the Community against other community teams. The Veterans' project aims to support individuals who have left the forces, and their families, to improve their physical, mental and social health.
Burnley FC Veterans Project recognises the importance of long-term health for veterans after leaving the forces. The grant supports the Veterans Project in providing instructor-led fitness and well-being sessions along with bespoke nutritional advice for veterans and their partners.
In order to help combat the struggles veterans often face adjusting to civilian life after their time in the forces, this project gives its participants opportunities to come together and take part in physical challenges as a group. In the words of one participant Liam: “The football project has brought me out of my skin socially outside of work and helped me to get fitter. The best thing is that Veterans get to socialise and enjoy each other’s company. Civilian life can be isolated at times but with the programme, it gives you chance to chat and makes things easier.”
Veteran Andy told us: “After leaving the army many years ago I have missed the friendships, support and team ethic. Joining the football project has brought back the fun, the banter and belonging with a little old-fashioned competitive edge.”
*You can help British veterans in need and charities like Burnley FC in the Community by playing the Veterans’ Lottery.
