New Weekly Football Sessions Launch in Bradford

SWERVE initiative offers free football coaching for local youth

A new football programme called ‘SWERVE’ has been launched in Bradford, providing free weekly sessions for boys and girls aged 14 to 18. The sessions are organised by the Bradford City FC Community Foundation in partnership with the Morrisons Foundation, McDonald’s, and West Yorkshire Police.

The sessions aim to engage young people in the city, particularly those facing disadvantages, by using football as a means to promote positive social behaviour, community cohesion, and personal development.

Details of the SWERVE sessions

• Location: Morrisons store on Young Street, Girlington, Bradford
• Start date: Thursday 4 June
• Schedule: Every Thursday
  • Girls: 4.30pm to 5.30pm
  • Boys: 5.30pm to 6.30pm
• Age group: 14 to 18 years old
• Cost: Free to attend

The sessions will be delivered by qualified coaches and youth workers from the Bradford City FC Community Foundation. They will include football and sports coaching, peer support, and youth mentoring. The programme also aims to support young people who are not in education, employment, or training by providing guidance towards career development.

Statements from partners

Lizzie Saunderson-Trowell, Chief Operating Officer at the Bradford City FC Community Foundation, said the initiative was part of the Foundation’s commitment to providing inclusive activities for young people in Bradford.

David Scott, Corporate Affairs Director at Morrisons, highlighted the collaboration between the Foundation, police, and Morrisons as a way to offer sports coaching and youth mentorship in the city centre.

Inspector Adam Taylor from the Bradford West Neighbourhood Policing Team commented on the benefits of football in building teamwork, discipline, and a sense of belonging among young people.

Additional information

The sessions are funded by the Morrisons Foundation and supported by West Yorkshire Police and McDonald’s. Those interested in participating can find further details and register through the Bradford City FC Community Foundation’s channels.

The Morrisons Foundation supports registered charities across England, Scotland, and Wales, providing grants and match funding for local community projects. It is scheduled to temporarily close for a digital upgrade from 1 June 2026, with plans to reopen with a new application process.