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The Foundation is launching a new programme that uses football to help young men experiencing disadvantage to build confidence, strengthen friendships and feel more engaged at school.

Starting in November, the project will support boys who may be finding school life challenging. Through weekly football sessions, workshops and one-to-one mentoring, participants will have the opportunity to develop confidence, improve wellbeing and gain important life skills for the future.

The programme will also create space for conversations around identity, relationships and positive role models, helping boys navigate the challenges of growing up in an increasingly complex online world.

Funded by the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund, the project was officially launched at the Sussex Boys Impact Conference at the University of Sussex. More than 100 professionals working with young people across schools and community settings came together to explore the opportunities and challenges facing boys today.

Using football as a tool for positive change

Lynsey Hermann, Head of Community Programmes at the Foundation said: “Growing up today can be challenging for many young people. This project is about giving boys the support, encouragement and positive experiences they need to thrive during their teenage years.

“Football is a powerful way of bringing young people together. It creates opportunities to build confidence, develop resilience and learn important skills such as communication, teamwork and respect.”

Paul Barber, Chief Executive and Deputy Chairman of Brighton & Hove Albion, has been involved in chairing the Lost Boys Taskforce, a coalition of partners concerned about the growing challenges facing many boys and young men in the UK.

He commented: “I know from my own experience how crucial having a reliable mentor when you’re young can be. At a time when toxic online influencers are filling the void for so many boys, it’s clear that too many young men feel isolated and directionless.

“I’m incredibly proud that our Foundation is leading the way locally to help impact this issue and showing how football has a role to play in turning around the lives of young men.”

The Foundation will work closely with Dr Alex Blower from Boys’ Impact and author of ‘Lost Boys: How Education is Failing Young Working-Class Men’. Alex will be providing evidence-based insight to support the programme and lead an independent evaluation of its impact.

Alex said: “Our research shows that many boys benefit from having safe spaces where they can talk openly about their experiences, emotions and sense of identity.

“Projects like this can help young people build stronger relationships, develop confidence and engage positively with the world around them. We’re excited to see the impact it has over the coming years.”

What is Football3?

A key part of the programme is Football3, an innovative approach to the game that puts communication, respect and fair play at its heart.

Unlike traditional football, Football3 is played without referees. Instead, mediators help teams discuss and agree rules before the game, while encouraging reflection and discussion afterwards.

The format is built around three stages: a pre-match discussion, the game itself and a post-match conversation. Players earn points not only for scoring goals, but also for demonstrating fair play and positive behaviour, helping to build valuable life skills on and off the pitch.

The programme will begin at Heathfield Community College, with the first participants taking part in activities later this year.

To find out more about the Foundation’s project to support young men visit here.