Kidderminster Harriers FC Football in the Community

Kidderminster Harriers FC Football in the Community is a registered charity (Charity Number: 1092877) based in Worcestershire, England, dedicated to promoting football and healthy lifestyles through community engagement. Established in 1993, the charity operates as the official community trust of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club and aims to encourage more children and adults to participate in football both as players and spectators[2][4].

Background and Objectives

The charity's primary objective is to further and assist in the education of children on both social and physical levels using football, including the sport’s history and rules, as an educational tool. Other sports activities are also employed to advance these objectives. The charitable activities emphasize inclusivity, enjoyment, and the promotion of healthier lifestyles among people of all ages and abilities in Worcestershire and surrounding areas[2][4].

Key objectives include:

• Promoting healthier lifestyles
• Creating inclusive environments
• Advocating the benefits of football participation
• Ensuring enjoyment and fun in all activities[2]

Programs and Activities

The charity offers a wide range of football-related programs throughout the year, impacting an average of 15,000 participants annually. These programs include:

• Youth football coaching and development: Designed to nurture football talent and promote physical activity among children and young people.
• Adult football sessions: Such as Walking Football, Jogging Football, and 40-plus Fitness Football, allowing older adults or those with reduced fitness to continue enjoying football in a safe and adapted environment. These sessions are held regularly and focus on social engagement, fitness, and fun[5].

All coaching staff are qualified to at least FA Level 2, with some holding UEFA A or B licenses. Many are former professional players, bringing expertise and experience to the community programs[2].

Recognition

The charity has received accolades for its community work, including being named the National League Trust’s Community Club of the Year twice, in 2012 and 2019. This reflects the trust’s success in increasing football participation and promoting healthier lifestyles in the local community over more than two decades[2].

Governance and Structure

The charity is governed by a board of six trustees and supported by a number of volunteers and paid staff. It maintains policies covering safeguarding, financial management, risk management, and complaints in line with best practices for charity governance[4].

Impact

Kidderminster Harriers FC Football in the Community has played a significant role in enhancing physical health, social education, and community spirit in Worcestershire. Through its football-centric approach, the charity contributes to the well-being of children, adults, elderly people, and individuals with disabilities, fostering a more active and inclusive community[4].

This charitable organization stands as a model of how football clubs can leverage their resources and expertise to benefit not only their supporters but the wider population through sport-based education and health promotion.

[1] https://harriers.co.uk/communitytrust/ [2] https://harriers.co.uk/communitytrust/community-trust-info/ [3] https://harriers.co.uk/localcommunity/community-trust-old/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3991269/full-print [5] https://harriers.co.uk/communitytrust/regular-courses/