Who governs Football in the Community?

Football in the Community is a national project covering all 92 professional football clubs in England and Wales. Our board of Directors is made up from representatives from The Premier League, The Football League, The FA and the Professional Footballer's Association.

How long has FITC existed?

A pilot scheme was launched in 1986 with Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End, Oldham, Rochdale, Manchester City, Manchester United and Bury delivering community football initiatives for the first year. Due to their success, it was rolled out across the country with clubs joining the scheme each year.

When did Stockport County join the scheme?

1992, under Dave Ryan, who is now FITC Officer at Manchester United.

How is the scheme funded?

Each scheme is self funding, and not reliant on the club supporting it financially. We have our own Constitution, Bank Accounts, Management Forum, etc. We raise our funds through After School Clubs, Soccer Courses, In Service Days, Skill Challenge Events, Tournaments, etc. We can also access funding for particular projects via partners such as the Football Foundation, Big Lottery Fund, Awards for All. Sponsorship is also a valuable revenue stream.

Who sponsors the scheme?

We have a national kit sponsor, PUMA UK, who provide the majority of projects with staff uniforms, balls and bibs. Parfetts Cash & Carry kindly sponsor our After School Sessions. New Car Discount and Arnold Clark Honda (Stockport) provide the scheme with transport enabling us to get out into the community and deliver our activities.

What 'external' partners do you work with?

We carry out work in conjunction with various partners such as Greater Manchester Police, Local Education Authority, Cheshire Football Association, Stockport MBC, Stockport Youth Service amongst others.

Where are you based?

We live here in Edgeley Park, our office is situated above Ground Control at the Railway End of the ground.

What area do you cover?

We carry out activities in Stockport, High Peak, Tameside and North Cheshire.

How can we contact Football in the Community?

Telephone: 0161-286-8888 ext 262
Fax: 0161-286-8900
E-Mail: mike.smith@stockportcounty.com
Post: Football in the Community, Stockport County Football Club, Edgeley Park, Hardcastle Road, Edgeley, Stockport, SK3 9DD.