Nearly 5,000 people have benefitted from a wide range of sport, health, education and engagement programmes laid on by the Port Vale Foundation over the last 12 months.
The Foundation’s annual impact report 2023-2024 outlines the work carried out to positively benefit the local community – with one of its initiatives being awarded the English Football League Project of the Season accolade for League One.
The report, carried out by EVID Impact, found that more than 90 per cent of participants surveyed felt the Foundation, which is the charity arm of Port Vale Football Club, was ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ for the community.
Ninety-two per cent of participants felt it had a positive impact on their physical wellbeing and 88 per cent of respondents said it had improved their mental wellbeing.
Happiness of participants was on average 19 per cent higher than the national average for England and 85 per cent said it has helped them make a positive step change to their lives during their involvement.
In total, the Foundation reached 4,808 individual participants throughout the year across 38 different programmes and supporting vulnerable families.
Carol Shanahan, Port Vale Co-owner and Chair, said: “When we, as a family, took the decision to acquire Port Vale Football Club, our vision extended far beyond just the 90 minutes the pitch. We recognised an opportunity to embrace the local community – one which makes this club so special – and make a real difference to people’s lives in Burslem and beyond.
“The Port Vale Foundation stands as a testament to this commitment, embodying our core belief that football is more than a beautiful game – it can also be a powerful catalyst for positive change.
“Over the last 12 months, we have continued our journey, seeing incredible stories of resilience and transformation, and it is the dedication of our staff, volunteers and supporters that drives us forward. Together, we have created a safe and inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.”
A key achievement for the year was winning the English Football League Project of the Season for League One, beating the other 23 teams.
This related to the Foundation’s Community Cupboard and Lounge, delivered in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare Trust.
The programme supports people who are vulnerable to access affordable food and essential items, while also getting advice and guidance on a range of things such as housing, financial advice and support for mental wellbeing.
Head of Community, Will Turner said, “This is the first time an external organisation have evaluated our work, helping us to understand our impact and give us areas for improvement.
“The results are amazing, we are so proud to showcase what we do and we know we are making a difference to people’s lives.”
