Switch the Play Foundation

The Switch the Play Foundation is a United Kingdom-based charity dedicated to supporting sportspeople in their transition from professional sport to life beyond athletic careers. Established in 2014 and granted official charity status in 2020, it holds the distinction of being the UK's only charity focused exclusively on helping all athletes, regardless of their level of achievement, to successfully navigate the challenges that arise when retiring from competitive sport.[1][2][3]

Mission and Vision

The foundation's vision is a world where every sportsperson can fulfil their potential at every stage of their lives. Its mission is to empower sportspeople to be their best both through and beyond their sport by providing person-centred training, wellbeing, and transition support tailored to the unique needs of athletes facing career change.[1][2]

Background and Need

Sporting careers often end relatively early in life, sometimes before athletes reach their 30s. Not all athletes enjoy high-profile success, lucrative contracts, or widespread recognition, which means the transition out of sport can lead to challenges including loss of identity, lack of purpose, financial uncertainty, and mental health struggles. The foundation was created to address these issues by raising awareness, educating sportspeople on how to prepare for retirement, and providing targeted support during this critical period.[1][2][4]

Activities and Services

Switch the Play works directly with sportspeople at any stage of their career, helping them prepare for and manage life after sport. It also collaborates with sporting organisations—including national governing bodies, player care managers, coaches, and parents—who share a duty of care to athletes. The foundation additionally partners with corporate entities that provide funding and create opportunities for athletes’ development beyond sport.[1][2]

Among its support offerings is "TeamMate," an emotional phone-call service enabling athletes to discuss their feelings and challenges confidentially with someone outside their immediate circle, aiding their mental wellbeing during transition phases.[4]

Core Values

The foundation’s work is guided by five core values: Excellence, Passion, Person-Centred approach, Collaboration, and Independence. These principles underpin its commitment to delivering impactful programs and maintaining a supportive environment for sportspeople.[2]

Governance and Status

Registered under the charity number 1187733, Switch the Play Foundation operates as a small charity demonstrating adherence to good fundraising practices and compliance with the UK's fundraising regulations.[3][5]

Note: Specific details such as founder names, key personnel, and annual reports were not available in the provided sources.

[1] https://switchtheplay.com [2] https://www.switchtheplay.com/about-us/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5125272 [4] https://www.gllsportfoundation.org/benefits/switch-the-play-foundation [5] https://www.fundraisingregulator.org.uk/directory/switch-play-foundation