Street Soccer NI is a charity that brings positive change to the lives of the most marginalised groups in society. We work with the homeless, unemployed, drug and alcohol dependent, asylum seekers, refugees, people with mental health issues and more. Alongside free football sessions we support players with their needs such as housing, employment, education and mental health. We have 10 weekly projects throughout NI and work with up to 100 people every week including men, women and people with learning disabilities.
Why the community needs usBenefits of being involved in the project include better physical and mental health, increased confidence and self esteem, motivation, structure, friendships, support with housing and employment, help to overcome addictions and more. Players who come to our projects regularly are less likely to re offend or commit anti social behavior. We have a number of players who have become volunteers and now give something back to the charity and have become leaders in their community.
Our impact on the communityWe work with over 100 people a week and we provide support for any needs they have. Our project is unique as not only provides free football to disadvantaged groups but also helps them get housing and employment. Every year we also take a team of 8 homeless men and women to Homeless World Cup which has a huge impact on their lives. Since 2013 we have been to Poland, Chile, Amsterdam, Glasgow, Oslo, Mexico and Cardiff. For more info check out our website www.streetsoccerni.org.
