About this Event
What keeps someone on the sidelines of grassroots football? What barriers, whether seen or unseen, stop them from stepping onto the pitch?
Is it confidence, cost, culture, or simply the feeling that the game isn’t meant for them?
These are questions that the Sheffield and Hallamshire County FA hope to answer as we host an inclusion workshop at Rotherham’s AESSEAL New York Stadium in April.
Led by the County FA’s Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG) and spearheaded by SHCFA Board Member Des Smith (Founder, Sheffield Caribbean Sports Club), the workshop will explore who isn’t currently involved in the game and why — and what we can do locally to change that.
Despite football’s reputation as the game for all, barriers still exist at grassroots level.
For some, this may be about representation. For others, it may be about accessibility, cultural understanding, cost, confidence, or simply feeling welcome.
This workshop is a chance for people to share their experiences and help shape future inclusion work across our region.
What to expect
- A welcoming, informal discussion space
- Guest speakers sharing their experiences in football
- Open conversation about barriers, challenges and solutions
- The chance to help shape future plans for grassroots football
Topics may include:
- Barriers to participation in grassroots football
- Representation and belonging in the game
- Tackling discrimination and improving inclusion
- How football can better support local communities
Who should attend
The event is open to everyone, including those not currently involved in football.
We are particularly keen to hear from individuals, groups and organisations representing:
- LGBTQ+ communities
- Black, Asian and ethnically diverse communities
- Disabled people and neurodivergent individuals
- Faith and belief groups
- Community leaders, allies and advocates
Event details
- Date: Wednesday 22 April 2026
- Time: Arrival from 6:00pm (refreshments available). Workshop: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
- Venue: AESSEAL New York Stadium, New York Way, Rotherham, S60 1FJ. Please report to the main reception on arrival.
Got a question? Contact Julie Callaghan, Disability & Inclusion Football Development Officer at [email protected] or 07736 946696
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Rotherham United Community Trust,, New York Way, Rotherham, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
