Bradford Community Programme Supports Young Men Through Sport

A local initiative helps young men develop life skills and confidence

The Bradford City FC Community Foundation’s programme, The Way Forward, has been highlighted as part of the English Football League’s (EFL) Scan to Smile campaign. This initiative aims to promote the positive impact football club charities have on their communities during the challenging January period.

One participant, Toyi Hussein, has spoken about the benefits he has gained from taking part in The Way Forward. The programme is designed to support young men in Bradford who face limited employment and educational opportunities. Toyi described how the sessions provide him with motivation and social interaction, contributing positively to both his physical and mental health.

Programme Details and Participant Experience

The Way Forward combines multi-sport coaching sessions with workshops focused on life skills, communication, and personal development. It runs every Friday at the BEAP Community Partnership and the Foundation’s City Hub, located next to the University of Bradford Stadium on Valley Parade. The project is funded by a £100,000 grant from the SkyBet EFL Building Foundations Fund.

Toyi attended the sessions alongside his twin brother, Bukuru, where they met other young men from similar backgrounds who share an interest in sport. The group took part in both physical activities and workshops over a 12-week period, culminating in a graduation event held at the University of Bradford Stadium.

• Participants engaged in multi-sport coaching and life skills workshops.
• The programme aims to build confidence and resilience among young men.
• The first cohort completed a 12-week course ending with a graduation ceremony.

Support and Recognition

Pavan Sembi, Head of Community Engagement and Inclusion at the Foundation, commented on Toyi’s progress during the programme, noting his personal growth and increased confidence. The graduation event featured appearances from Bradford City AFC players Bobby Pointon and Matt Pennington, who spoke about their own experiences and the importance of positive male role models.

Ian Ormondroyd, CEO of the Bradford City FC Community Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the programme’s launch and highlighted Toyi’s story as an example of the Foundation’s work. The Scan to Smile campaign, running alongside the football fixture between Bradford City and Doncaster on 31 January, includes posters and QR codes at EFL stadiums and during televised matches. These codes link to stories illustrating the impact of football club charities.

About Scan to Smile

• Campaign runs from 23 to 31 January at EFL stadiums and during Sky Sports broadcasts.
• Fans can scan QR codes to access uplifting stories about football’s wider social impact.
• Initiative highlights how football clubs contribute to their local communities beyond the pitch.

Trevor Birch, Chief Executive of the EFL, stated that Scan to Smile is intended to share real stories of hope and demonstrate the positive influence of football club charities.