Social Impact Report 2020 Social Impact Report 2020 Social Impact Report 2020

OUR MISSION: 02 Making a POSITIVE DIFFERENCE FOR ALL through sport, physical activity, and learning 03 VISION: IMPROVING Lives, ENHANCING Communities VALUES: INTEGRITY: To be honest, reliable, and trustworthy INCLUSIVITY: To be inclusive in all our decision making INNOVATION: To be bold and creative in the way we work Social Impact Report 2020 Social Impact Report 2020

Results from the Annual Community Survey 2020

“Since joining the Watford “Brilliant staff and concept “The Trust has been a FC family, the children to get the community game changer for me, and have had the chance to healthy and fit. I APPRECIATE ALL THE experience AMAZING CAN’T PRAISE THEM SUPPORT THEY HAVE LIFE CHANGING Watford FC’s CSE Trust is AND THEIR SERVICES Watford FC’s CSE Trust staff Watford FC’s CSE Trust are GIVEN ME” OPPORTUNITIES” a valuable asset to their HIGHLY ENOUGH” are knowledgeable in their friendly and welcoming. local community. project area. STRONGLY AGREE STRONGLY AGREE STRONGLY AGREE

04 82% 05 AGREE 76% 68% Watford FC’s CSE Trust AGREE AGREE Watford FC’s CSE Trust Watford FC’s CSE Trust deliver to the need of supported their community make a positive difference to 14% their community. during the coronavirus 20% the lives of their participants. 29% Neither agree nor disagree 4% STRONGLY AGREE lockdown period. Neither agree nor disagree 3.5% STRONGLY AGREE Neither agree nor disagree 3% Disagree 0% STRONGLY AGREE Disagree 0.5% Disagree 0% Strongly disagree 0% Strongly disagree 0% Strongly disagree 0% 60% 78% “Thanks for the efforts AGREE AGREE 51% “THE ACTIVITIES “EXCELLENT SUPPORT for HELPING THE AGREE ORGANISED BY THROUGH A VARIETY OF COMMUNITY” 34% THE TRUST HAVE 19% PROGRAMMES Neither agree nor disagree 6% 31% BEEN FANTASTIC. Neither agree nor disagree 3% to get school back on track Disagree 0% Neither agree nor disagree 17.5% There have been so many Disagree 0% with sport provision Strongly disagree 0% Disagree 0.5% different activities to choose Strongly disagree 0% and support with pupil emotional wellbeing” Strongly disagree 0% from and STAFF HAVE I would recommend “FANTASTIC DEDICATION BEEN SUPER FRIENDLY “Would like to say that Watford FC’s CSE Trust to AND SUPPORT from staff” “GREAT BUNCH OF FOLKS AND HELPFUL. we truly appreciate “THE TRUST HAVE BEEN my friends/family. who genuinely want to help My daughter has really YOUR IMPORTANT A GREAT SUPPORT TO STRONGLY AGREE “I have been involved with us achieve our goals whilst enjoyed taking part. Thank ROLE IN OUR MY FAMILY and to the the CSE Trust for the past learning from their vast you to the whole team for CHILDREN’S LIFE” local projects I have been 6 years both as a resident knowledge” the work you are doing for involved in. Many thanks for 82% and professionally and children and teenagers!” the work that you do” AGREE HAVE ALWAYS FOUND THEIR SUPPORT AND 15% PROVISION TO BE Neither agree nor disagree 3% EXCELLENT” Disagree 0% Strongly disagree 0% Social Impact Report 2020 Social Impact Report 2020

WELCOME Contents to our 2020 Social Impact Report Life in Watford FC For Lockdown Health & Wellbeing P: 8-19 P: 20-27 Chris Norton Scott Duxbury 01 02 CHAIRMAN, CEO AND CHAIRMAN, WATFORD FC CSE TRUST WATFORD FC

Whilst it may be hard to look back at this It is not a surprise to me that year with any great fondness, there have the values and ethos of the club’s self- Watford FC For Watford FC For been some shining examples of positivity financing charity, the Watford FC Sports Learning & Skills Social Inclusion to light up the gloomy skies of 2020. & Education Trust, came shining through 03 P: 28-33 04 P: 34-41 during a time of true adversity. The unified feeling of community spirit is one 06 such example. In this report you will be able Community and family were firmly to the 07 to see the fantastic work of the Trust, both fore as the Trust, its staff and volunteers during the coronavirus pandemic, and the all played a pivotal role in the delivery of many challenges that brings, as well as the support to both our NHS neighbours and to Watford FC For Sport & Watford FC For projects and activities delivered on a daily those in our locality who most needed help Football Development Strong Foundations basis, to make a positive difference for all. during the first stages of Covid-19. 05 P: 42-49 06 P: 50-61 It is important that we continue to monitor, It is fantastic to see how the Trust evaluate, and learn from the feedback we continues to effortlessly engage with people receive, to ensure our continuous improvement of all ages, genders and backgrounds, using on what, how and why we deliver the very well-researched and delivered projects programmes and activities we do. What makes and activities. The original this report such great reading, is the real family Club feedback from real participants , with real life The feedback, case studies, and statistics 07 P: 62-69 examples of the positive impact we are having – highlighted in this report – illustrate this on people’s lives across our community. success superbly. Before I leave you, it is only right that I hope you enjoy reading this report and I point out, the contents of this report, and share the pride I felt in being reminded of the continued work of the Trust, is only made the amazing depth and breadth of our possible by our staff and volunteers and Trust’s reach. OUR TRUSTEES AND PATRONS the support of our football club, partners, Best regards fundraisers, and donors. Thank you. Patrons: Baroness Dorothy Thornhill MBE, The Taylor Family Chair: Chris Norton All the best and happy reading. Vice-Chair: Paul Clark Trustees: Chris Luff MBE, Dr Justin Davis-Smith CBE, Ed Coan, Emma Saunders, Gayle Clarke, Martine Gabbitass, Prof Stuart Timperley, Simon Macqueen Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

Life in 01LOCKDOWN

TEAM WEST HERTS

When Vicarage Road • Meeting rooms were available neighbours Watford General for hospital use on daily basis Hospital needed help in • Counselling rooms were the face of an unrelenting provided for hospital personnel pandemic, Watford FC • Hospitality boxes were answered, transforming their transformed into bedrooms 08 stadium into a fortress of 09 support for the community. • Rooms were allocated for training former NHS staff A club-wide initiative in recalled to duty which all departments came • Memorial Room where together, from retail and hospital workers could reflect operations to academy and and remember their fellow the Trust, this included: workers who died from • The Gallery used as a COVID-19 24-hour sanctuary for • The maternity unit set up hospital personnel in Sky Lounge is still in • Upper GT stand used as operation* storage depot for donations to • Area within the stadium used hospital – numerous pallets of as a mask production unit food and drink redistributed. • Media facilities were used by • Acted as a distribution hospital staff as a call centre. depot for hospices across Hertfordshire *as of November 2020.

Over Circa 10 BEDROOMS 50,000 1,000 created within boxes meals served scrubs washed each day for night workers Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

THANK YOU TO THE VOLUNTEERS THAT HELPED MAKE HORNETS IT ALL HAPPEN AT HOME

10 11

TEAM WEST HERTS SANCTUARY VOLUNTEERS: At a time when the Watford FC family was Case Eames, Charlie Armitage, Samuel Steadman, drawn apart, the Club made Charlie Barr, Charlotte Goult, Sarah Cleveland, Sheena Patel, sure supporters continued to Chloe Bryden, Darren Goult, Simon Carter, Stacey Bryden, feel together More than More than David Barry, David Segal, Stephen Cummings, Diane Cannon, Emma Stephen Horswood, A much-praised initiative Saunders, Eve Street, Stuart Street, saw staff and fellow fans carry 300 2,500 Georgiana Risco, Graham Hall, Thomas Horswood, Tia Young, out wellbeing calls to those supporters volunteered supporters received calls from Ian Sayle, Jenny Reynolds, Tom Fisher, Tony O’Connor, most in need of them. Those their services the club to offer support Julia Bell, Julian Knight, Tracey Segal, Val Jones, carrying out calls also included Kate Holmes, Keeley Hall, Vicki Street, Victoria Clarke a host of former and current Lauren Bryden, Lee Biggerstaff, Hornets players. Marion Connolly, Marsha Tabor, A follow up scheme has now Matthew Morris, Melinda Ward, been launched to continue this Nicky Cotton, Nicky Moore, great work. Oliver Gill, Patrick Fisher, Peter Drury, Rachel Yaffe, Rebecca Connolly, Richard Bastable, Rickie Jones, Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING IN THE MOST DIFFICULT OF TIMES

The Coronavirus pandemic ALMOST ONE QUARTER and lockdown brought with it a host of new challenges for all sectors of the community, (24%) including an increase in poor of UK adults have mental health and loneliness FELT LONELINESS and a decrease in healthy lifestyles… because of Coronavirus www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Parents/carers of MORE THAN primary school age FOUR IN TEN children taking part in 12 the survey report an 13 INCREASE IN THEIR (44%) CHILD’S EMOTIONAL, of young people (aged BEHAVIOURAL, 18-24 years) have felt AND RESTLESS/ loneliness because of ATTENTIONAL Coronavirus www.mentalhealth.org.uk The challenge was set physical activity, as well as workouts, weight management DIFFICULTIES then. The Trust knew that a mental wellbeing course support, activity motivation Co-SPACE, University of Oxford they would have to work delivered online. There were and signposting. With weekly alongside their volunteers and also online classroom sessions mental wellbeing catchups MORE THAN HALF 46% community to truly live up and employability mentoring and quizzes. of survey respondents of adults to their values – Inclusivity, for young people. Moreover, Older members of the were LESS ACTIVE Integrity, and Innovation. children and teenagers during lockdown community were engaged Through being agile and took part in online gaming with wellbeing phone calls and (60%) Unit for Biocultural Variation and tournaments, forums, and over TWO THIRDS Obesity (UBVO), University of Oxford creative, the Trust made sure the specially designed Golden that their various programme quizzes, bakery classes and Times newspaper. There was of young people skills practices. There was INCREASE participants continued to even work across the ages be engaged throughout the also a host of technical with children and young people BINGE EATING COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever football challenges, drills, getting in touch with the older (68%) and consumption their age, there was something }and tips, with tailor made generation with pen pal letters said their of processed snacks on offer for everyone. strength and conditioning and hosted quizzes. MENTAL HEALTH and alcohol clips made available. Local schools and pupils GOT WORSE Unit for Biocultural Variation and were given a range of home The focus for adults was during lockdown Obesity (UBVO), University of Oxford learning resources across health – both physical and mental. There were home www.mind.org.uk/ PSHE, English, Maths, and Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

1,342.5 HOURS of FITNESS SESSIONS CASE streamed across our programmes STUDIES

Across the country there were countless examples of how individuals, businesses 900+ 2,500 and fellow charities became heroes within their HOURS WELLBEING communities. of EDUCATION AND PHONE CALLS INCLUSION-BASED made to local people Here are just a few examples ENGAGEMENT with by our staff and of how the Trust continued young people online volunteers to make a positive difference to the people’s lives through sport, physical activity and learning… 14 15 Lockdown Case Study: 500 POSITIVE MINDS; EDUCATION 20 ONLINE Mental wellbeing is important every day of the year, but its importance was reinforced CAKES MENTAL HEALTH spectacularly during lockdown. So, when school closure meant the postponement of our FOR CARERS SUPPORT SERVICE mental wellbeing and coping strategy classroom programme, the Trust knew it had to find a delivered to local sessions including 2 way to continue engagement. The team soon created a host of videos and workshops, to go Care Homes watch-along calls during Watford FC games alongside several at-home challenges to keep the programme going. 2,039 pupils across 93 Hertfordshire Schools engaged with the Positive Minds; Education online sessions. 90% of children that took part in the Positive Minds; Education 80+ 250 online courses agreed that they now understand the difference OLDER ADULTS between healthy and unhealthy coping strategies, with 88% agreeing SCHOOLS have received our they had identified ways of improving their own wellbeing. have received specially made EDUCATIONAL NEWSPAPER and 88% of pupils that had completed the online course agreed that RESOURCES KEEP-IN TOUCH as well as resources POSTCARDS they ‘know how to respond, and how not to respond, to someone that and challenges shared via social media and web wants to share their thoughts or feelings with them’ “The project has helped me to control my emotions and recognise why I feel that way.” Participant Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

CASE STUDIES

Lockdown Case Study: PL KICKS Youth provision built on physical delivery needed to think fast to keep young people engaged. The team behind PL Kicks created an array of activities which were delivered throughout the weeks and months of lockdown. These included fitness sessions, football skills challenges, quizzes, bakery classes, FIFA tournaments, virtual classroom sessions and Youth Voice discussions

“My daughter enjoyed the online dance sessions too; these kept her upbeat during the lockdown. As for me, it offered a great support 16 and helped to keep Ezi engaged during the lockdown. I would like to 17 use this opportunity to say thank you to you all.” Parent Lockdown Case Study: SHAPE UP Making sustainable healthy lifestyle changes is hard at the best of times, but when venues closed this free weight-management programme came to a stop, it made that even more difficult. Live streamed weekly sessions were the answer for Shape Up and continued to provide the usual high level of nutritional information and support.

60% of Shape Up participants achieved their goal and lost more than 5% of their bodyweight during lockdown. Asked to rate the positive impact the Shape Up online sessions had on their mental wellbeing during isolation, Shape Up participants scored them 9/10. “It has been a hugely important support structure for me through lockdown and what’s been a challenging period. From what I hear from other people on the course it has been important for them too. The weight that I have lost, and the fitness gains I’ve made have really surprised me to be honest. I think I’m sitting at around a 17kg loss.” Stephen, participant Social Impact Report 2020 01 LOCKDOWN 01 LOCKDOWN Social Impact Report 2020

CASE STUDIES

Lockdown Case Study: Lockdown Case Study: GET IN TOUCH ACTIVE WATFORD & THREE RIVERS PL Primary Stars Pupils from Bromet Primary School created hand-written A motivational health programme based on consultations, referrals from healthcare letters and drawings delivered to older adult participants from the Trust’s Golden professionals and physical fitness sessions clearly had challenges to overcome. GP Surgeries Memories programme. Jay and Sam were so impressed with their letter from Jess they and community centres were closed, and healthcare professionals found themselves under strain. wanted to return the compliment with a letter of their own This programme would need to innovate. Targeted social media provided a great new avenue for referrals, consistent and flexible communication over phone calls, texts and virtual consultations “Thank you very much for your delightful letter. It helped Jay and mixed in with plenty of streamed fitness sessions made this programme thrive. I during these difficult times.” 100 inactive people took part in Active Watford & Three Rivers Jay and Sam’s daughter was also quick to message Bromet to send 18 during lockdown, accessing consultations over zoom and phone. 19 her thanks… Over 700 follow up contacts were made, offering support, guidance “What a lovely thing to do, thank you. Dad was thrilled by the letter.” and signposting. 3 exercise sessions streamed per week Lockdown Case Study: PL INSPIRES Whilst many pupils were told to stay at home, key Lockdown Case Study: worker children were still in need of their schools. PLAYER DEVELOPMENT CENTRES (PDC) Thanks to the fantastic efforts of teachers and fellow Players at the Trust’s PDCs attend weekly sessions to develop their skills but how do you do school staff, they were able to answer that need. In the that when no sessions are permitted? case of Adeyfield School, they would not face this alone. Trust staff were able to deliver a condensed version of Trust staff made sure to keep contact with all of their players, getting them involved in PL Inspires. challenges and drills to maintain and improve their technique, as well as providing valuable sustenance for the mind … “Thank you so you much for your continued “The Watford challenges have really kept Mathieu going and he support with our groups of students who has learnt some new skills. He continues to do his daily skills. I just have been coming into school. Having wanted to say thank you as it’s really helped Mathieu mentally as someone different come in has made such well as physically” Fiona, Parent a difference and I appreciate the time and effort you put in to make this a success”. Ms Sandford, Adeyfield School Social Impact Report 2020 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING Social Impact Report 2020 WatfordFC 02 wellbeing

20 21 Social Impact Report 2020 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING Social Impact Report 2020

WATFORD FC A major change society is currently confronting is the stigma and taboo attached to mental HEALTH & health and wellbeing, we all need to speak up, WELLBEING talk more and share experiences.

In our strategy we said we would play an active role in improving people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. It would come as no surprise that as an official charity of a professional football club, physical fitness and an active lifestyle are important to our work. Sport can be a fantastic antidote to obesity and the 22 many ailments that can follow 2311 it. This is why you will find that many of our programmes will seek to increase participation in sport and physical activity, we all need to speak up, talk groups or providing services tackling obesity head on. more and share experiences. that increase knowledge of Obesity can take hold We have made it a priority healthy coping strategies, from a young age so initiatives to play our part in improving resilience and growth like the ones we deliver are awareness and use the profile mindsets. crucially important. They of Watford FC to share a Together, we can create a include weekly football message of hope to those healthier community. and dance sessions, and in- experiencing poor mental curriculum healthy lifestyle With the pressures and professionals, partners and wellbeing. This point has been health, as well as a call to courses providing nutrition barriers that life brings, your other external providers underlined even more so in arms for us all to become education. After all, fitness physical health and wellbeing is paramount to achieving recent times. One of the core support systems to those that and weight-management sometimes take a back seat. successful outcomes. This outcomes of everything we may need it. One key way we are not only determined by Realistically this does happen. is one of reasons we actively do, is improving self-esteem do this is by strengthening our activity alone. It is part of our job though, to signpost to make sure and confidence, making relationship with key partners put those people back into everybody feels comfortable participants feel better about and supporting local schools It doesn’t follow that the driving seat when it with their physical health themselves, the world around and organisations. comes to sustainable healthy and weight journeys. being fit and active as them and their futures. Yet it cannot just be about lifestyle changes. a child you will become We also acknowledge that A major change society is awareness, it must also be a fit and active adult. Of course, we don’t profess positive health isn’t just about currently confronting is the about action. Whether that to tackle this alone, the your physical state, it’s also stigma and taboo attached to is facilitating conversations support of healthcare looking after your mental mental health and wellbeing, within our projects and support Social Impact Report 2020 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING Social Impact Report 2020

“I believe I’ve LOST 5KG - IN EXCESS OF 5% OF 56 BODY WEIGHT. The course PEOPLE has also resulted in about a from local grassroots clubs 20% reduction in my blood have ACCESSED THE sugars throughout the day, FREE TRAINING COURSE, 95% which means that (whilst OF CHILDREN Positive Minds; - Coach the still taking medication) Approach, that provides had a better understanding my blood sugars are now information on mental health of the IMPORTANCE OF within the normal range. in a sporting environment EXERCISE, NUTRITION Moving forward, I intend to and how best to support AND HYDRATION undertake more strenuous youth players. after taking part in the exercise and hopefully Joy of Moving, Move and achieve further weight loss Learn programme. and fitness improvement. THE COURSE IS EXCELLENT AS 113 IT EMPHASISES YOUNG PEOPLE THE NEED TO MAKE Those on Shape Up were referred into MAINTAINABLE have seen sustainable Positive Minds; - Empower DIET AND LIFESTYLE lifestyle changes with sessions and received mental CHANGES.” 95.86% reporting an wellbeing workshops and Martin, Participant, Shape Up improved diet and 93.4% physical activities. saying that they had increased 24 Over 2/3rds of these the amount of physical 25 young people showed activity they were doing. A SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT in their POSITIVE MINDS mental health. 7out of 10 was recently the PARTICIPANTS RECIPIENT OF have INCREASED THE THE NATIONALLY AMOUNT OF PHYSICAL RECOGNISED ACTIVITY they are doing MENTAL HEALTH AND since taking part in Active WELLBEING AWARD, Watford & Three Rivers. In 2019 alone, sponsored by Active IQ, at OVER400 PARTICIPANTS The Sport and Recreation have BURNED 21,864,850 “I NEVER WOULD HAVE Alliance’s ‘Community Sport calories whilst taking part in FOUND THIS ACTIVITY and Recreation Awards’. Shape Up with a collective BUT FOR ACTIVE WATFORD weight loss of over & THREE RIVERS. 2.83 TONS OF WEIGHT. It has really given me encouragement that 314 I can increase my mobility INACTIVE INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATION and fitness despite received an ACTIVE HAS QUADRUPLED autoimmune arthritis. WATFORD & THREE in the last year, with 26 I AM SO GRATEFUL.” RIVERS MOTIVATIONAL ADULT MALES NOW Moira, Participant, Active CONSULTATION and follow ACCESSING FOOTBALL Watford & Three Rivers up resources and contacts AND MENTAL WELLBEING following referral from SESSIONS, as part of health professionals. Positive Minds; - Man On! Social Impact Report 2020 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING 02 WATFORD FC WELLBEING Social Impact Report 2020

WatfordFC WatfordFC Rob Anton

SHAPE UP of the coaches and the content of this POSITIVE MINDS The wellbeing conversations with a facilitator project that made the difference for Rob. were a particular highlight for Anton. “I was 24 stone; I’d come home from work Anton came to the Trust after being and just sit down straight away.” “The day after my first circuit session with subjected to bullying at school “It’s good because you get to Shape Up, I woke up aching, thinking ‘what understand how others are feeling and they am I doing?!’ I remember the coaches can understand how I am feeling. telling me to stick with it, to keep going and I feel included” I will get the rewards and I thought ‘this is As Anton underlines so well, talking can be a joke, this won’t change my life.” such a support … He could soon see that it was changing it. “I think everyone should talk because “I first realised after week three, I took a it prevents everything from being bottled up 26 picture and compared it to before I started, which can make things very difficult 27 I was just like ‘wow!” for people.” It was not just the exercise that helped Rob Talking, alongside the other key elements of make the difference, referencing the project’s the programme were clearly helping Anton nutrition education element he said: and when looking back recently, he agreed: “It changes the way you eat; you think “It gave me a really good boost and taught healthier. You realise what you think is me how I should deal with bullying. I think if Rob’s story is a familiar one. A man who healthy is maybe not and find out what you Naturally, this was having an adverse effect I hadn’t gone to the Trust sessions, it would struggled with his weight, had got into the could add into your diet.” on his mental health. Unfortunately, he is not be very different now, I wouldn’t have the habit of avoiding exercise and eating without There were even outcomes that at first alone in experiencing the cruelty of others. self-confidence I need.” thought of what he was putting into his body. were not the priority for Rob. As a result of a Yet, he bravely sought help. In this case, Confidence indeed, given Anton has now Poor diet and lack of physical activity can have gathering of a group of like-minded individuals help came in the form of the Trust’s Positive spoken publicly about his own mental health consequences beyond just weight gain as Rob with similar goals, he says: Minds programme. His journey began in the and Positive Minds on Match of the Day and found, struggling every night with his sleep. “I’ve made friends for life. We had a classroom, taking part in Positive Minds; - in front of a packed Vicarage Road stadium. He knew he had to do something so went to WhatsApp group and would meet-up for Education alongside his school peers, it was Now, Anton has even given his support to see his GP. Park Run every Saturday.” there he found out about a further offering of others whilst they start their own stories the Trust, this time outside of school. “I went to the Doctors, I was only getting The work is never fully done but Rob is now on with the Trust. two hours sleep a night, I was sent to a sleep a positive path and has since even completed “We would play sports, football and boxing Clearly this is one young man with a very clinic and was then told by the Doctor about a half-marathon. For Rob, there is no doubt and then sit around a table and just talk to positive mind. this programme called Shape Up.” the success of Shape Up… each other.” Obviously, a weight loss programme is not a “I didn’t believe it would, but Shape Up has The session in question was Positive Minds; - revolutionary idea and these things do come changed my life.” Empower, a programme designed for young with bumps in the road, but it was the nature people experiencing mental health issues. Social Impact Report 2020 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS Social Impact Report 2020 WatfordFC 03 learning

28 29 Social Impact Report 2020 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS Social Impact Report 2020

Over “The Joy of Moving, Move and Learn, programme was 100% HIGHLY INFORMATIVE 96.5% of the Premier League AND ENGAGING for the OF CHILDREN Inspires social action children and delivered in stated that after receiving group AGREED THAT such a way as to inspire as WATFORD FC our 6-week PL Primary Stars VOLUNTEERING well as educate. The staff (PLPS) reading intervention GAVE THEM A MORE were all very friendly and LEARNING that THEIR CONFIDENCE POSITIVE OUTLOOK engaged very well with AND ENJOYMENT on their behaviour and the the children, encouraging OF READING HAD importance of giving back to & SKILLS and explaining both in the INCREASED. the community. classroom and outside expand their maths knowledge whilst empowering the on the field. “ or improve their sports skills. participants to put their “I have learnt how to talk to Mr. Correa, Teacher, Holy Rood As the transition from child newfound skills in to practice. 96.5% people, I am normally quite Catholic Primary School to teenager and primary to One of the last, and perhaps OF CHILDREN a shy person, so this is really big for me, my confidence secondary school begins, that most daunting, transitions for stated that their ability to has grown so much as same pupil will be in new those leaving the educational WORK AS PART OF A TEAM had improved through the well. I think this will help 86% surroundings but still have setting though is the transition my future, especially with OF NATIONAL CITIZEN access to the opportunities into further education or work, PLPS programme. In our strategy we said we opening more opportunities SERVICE (NCS) we provide. At this stage they and once again the Trust offers would create and provide for getting a job. I notice participants said the opportunities for people to may take the form of activities support. For some, there are that it has uplifted me, programme had IMPROVED learn and develop new skills. designed to inspire their future personal barriers that may 83% I have loved meeting new THEIR UNDERSTANDING pathways and encourage affect this transition. It is people, it was a fear of mine of other cultures and 30 All of our programmes are OF YOUNG PEOPLE 31 entrepreneurial aspirations. the role of our mentors to and now I love it! I have backgrounds. designed to improve a person’s agreed the Premier League As they progress through their identify and overcome these made lifelong friends.” life chances, whether that is Inspires programme had education, they will have offers barriers for people, providing ENHANCED THEIR Hannah, NCS Participant an easily measurable outcome to combine academic studies an environment for positive Westfield Football Academy such as getting an unemployed PERSONAL SKILLS boasted a 100% pass rate with their love of football and learning experiences and AND EMPLOYMENT In its first year of operation, young person in to work or a competitive training. prepare them for their for its pupils with 70% soft outcome like improving a KNOWLEDGE. NINE STUDENTS HAVE continuing into higher future careers. SIGNED UP to take part in teenager’s self-esteem. It is worth recognising though level education. that learning occurs just as In one way or another, the Football Development When looking across our much outside the classroom, we are committed to and Coaching Foundation provision it is clear that there so we make sure to provide a equipping people with the Degree, in partnership with is a belief that individuals never range of projects, activities and skills to better themselves Middlesex University. 100% stop learning and the projects events to promote personal and their future. of Whitmore High School at our charity follow that development. Team-building Football and Education thought process. exercises, residentials and Scheme students graduated working to support a range with Distinction*/Distinction There are projects that of other local charities are all grade and 100% of those help support a child’s hosted by our programmes. students went onto university or into employment. fundamental skills and as All with the aim of that child grows, support improving vital communication from the Trust is on offer for and social skills, them every step of the way.

While one pupil will learn to succeed at reading with our interventions, others will Social Impact Report 2020 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS 03 WATFORD FC LEARNING & SKILLS Social Impact Report 2020

WatfordFC WatfordFC Stass Toby

NATIONAL CITIZEN SERVICE (NCS) Stass continued to see positive outcomes past BUILDING BETTER OPPORTUNITIES (BBO) the meetings, the mentor used a variety of the initial social mixing. techniques to re-engage Toby into education At 17-year-old Stass began his NCS Toby, who identifies as non-binary and to gain functional skills qualifications and journey alone. That would soon change “The main thing I’ve gained from NCS is uses the pronoun they, stopped attending improve future life chances. though … trust and teamwork. I’ve learnt to trust school at 15 years old, leaving with others and their opinions, as well as working no GCSEs. “The programme made me feel better and as a team – opening up to people and their less stressed at not being able to do what experiences.” I wanted. The fact that it helps people like That’s on top of the number of friends he has me to set and achieve reachable goals and made, friends that he ‘will know for a long takes a very heavy strain of what happens time’, Stass is testament to the success of the next off your back.” 32 programme. And this is a story repeated by so Following this mentorship, Toby was then 33 many local young people that have taking part supported into ‘Toolshed’ – a company which in the programme. Now Stass has joined the helps young people to gain qualifications cause in making sure more people can make whilst also doing a work placement. With this use of this service. successful outcome, you can see why Toby “they (NCS Staff) came to us and told us speaks so highly of BBO … about it and now I feel like I should go and “On the BBO programme you’ll overcome tell others about it because I enjoyed it so much, learn new things and meet new “I went in on my own, everyone was and I feel like other people should get the people. There are courses for people like a stranger, but doing the activities and chance to enjoy it as well.” They were hesitant to meet new people, me who haven’t been in education for many experiences, I learnt how to make friends.” As well as promoting the programme, Stass to re-connect with education and years. Even though it’s a struggle your mentor will always back you 100%. You can The first phase of the programme - a series of then joined the ‘NCS Local Youth Board’ – experiencing anxiety. regularly meeting up to shape future delivery start by taking baby steps, but you will get team bonding activities such as rock climbing - In their own words ‘Before being on the into bigger steps eventually.” clearly did the trick then. Turning this group of and support charities such as Roald Dahl’s BBO programme I felt like I had no hope strangers in to a collective or as Stass calls it: Marvellous Children’s Charity. A great story or chance of achieving anything I wanted Whilst lockdown may have since hampered of course, but how does a programme like this to do.’ Toby, they have now completed their English “one big gathering of different people, effect young people going forward? Functional skills and is fully engaged in shapes, sizes, cultures. It’s just one group of Thankfully, Toby did find BBO though, Functional Skills in Maths. people you have fun with”. “Just being active with the Trust and following a referral from an advisor at YC getting those experiences have given me “My future now seems clearer, like sunny As the journey continued with a mixture of Hertfordshire. The Trust’s BBO Youth Mentor a boost, especially now I’m looking to go worked with Toby to overcome barriers, with days and clear blue skies” vocational workshops and volunteering as to university.” part of charity social action projects, the first meeting at Toby’s home. As confidence grew, they moved to more open places such as a nearby café. Throughout Social Impact Report 2020 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION Social Impact Report 2020 WatfordFC 04 inclusion

34 35 Social Impact Report 2020 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION Social Impact Report 2020 41 Over GUESTS WITH A 160 MILD TO MODERATE OLDER ADULTS DEMENTIA COME TOGETHER diagnosis have attended on a weekly basis our GOLDEN MEMORIES for Extra-Time WATFORD FC SESSIONS. “It is the highlight of my SOCIAL INCLUSION week; I so look forward to it. The conversation, 17 laughter, BEING PART OF In our strategy we said we decline in people’s physical but young people will have can all tackle. A simple call, or CARERS THIS WONDERFUL would bring people together and mental health. the power to come together a group get-together, a game of have attended our group, a family.” and improve community to make a difference in their boules or just facilitating a space GOLDEN MEMORIES Guest, Golden Memories cohesion. Across our work we strive communities and steer them and time for engagement, these SESSIONS with a further four care home carers Watford FC has always brought to increase self-esteem and towards a brighter future. Our small things can do wonders for people together, whether facilities, diversionary activities self-efficacy. also engaging. “I FEEL IT the feeling of belonging in all IS THE DISCUSSION that is the buzz of a rocking and life skills projects build on There are barriers, of course, Vicarage Road or just a chat sectors of our communities. this knowledge, by mentoring, SESSIONS WHERE WE deteriorating health is one of TALK ABOUT THE PAST, down the pub with friends. We bring people together motivating and empowering the main factors. Dementia, and raise a smile. that strength within them. 720 DATES AND EVENTS At the Trust, we’ve looked the most common of the ACCUMULATIVE MILES THAT HAVE TRIGGERED to continue that feeling Our programmes for adults Alzheimer’s, is a cruel disease, driven by our Trust Minibus HER MEMORY of togetherness into our Across our work we strive reinvigorate the camaraderie attacking brain function and to collect guests and whereas before she hardly 36 37 communities and not just to increase self-esteem and of a group working towards one erasing those memories of bring them to our Golden said anything. I feel it’s from a football perspective. the feeling of belonging in all goal. Among older adults we family and community. Memories sessions, because of the discussions, No matter what their passion or sectors of our communities. often see a lack of inclusion. And it doesn’t just affect the which translates as sessions and talk about background, everybody deserves We bring people together In this instance and for a variety one experiencing dementia, but approximately 54 HOURS specific dates and years to feel part of one society. and raise a smile. In some of reasons, social isolation is a their carers, often spouses or ON THE MINIBUS, or as have triggered her mind.” instances, we look to combat harsh reality for many, a mixture family members, suffer through the guests affectionately Golden Memories carer You only have to look at the a lack of social inclusion head of personal circumstance or observing the decline of the one call it – the Disco Bus. news to see that this vision on. A lot of negativity in society health restrictions can mean that they love. Whilst there is sadly of one society is constantly is often attributed to young loneliness can be rife within our no cure for dementia, we can “YOUR DEMENTIA being challenged. Large scale people, but we know that older generations. Again, this is offer reminiscence and care, PROJECT IS SO 15 issues and people’s reaction to VOLUNTEERS given the right opportunities, something that by providing the which is exactly what we aim to IMPACTFUL them can drive people apart: SUPPORTING THE not only will issues such as right opportunities for interaction do at the Trust. We support both and continues to be for politics, socioeconomic status, GOLDEN MEMORIES anti-social behaviour decrease and worthwhile activity, that we those with dementia and their dad and our family. It is the terrorism. Yet it isn’t just carers through a multi-sensory PROGRAMME one thing that brings my (activities include national or global agendas that Wonderfully Watford session dad real joy and it’s the first interviewing former disrupt cohesion: inner-city to keep their engagement high new thing he’s engaged players, driving the minibus, gang culture, an individual’s and lessen the effects of low with in years … This means innate stereotypes, or even arranging refreshments mood and other aspects of that not only is my dad’s and much more!). just a sense of isolation that the disease. life enriched but mine and someone feels, can equally During the last year, we have our family’s are too.” Golden cause a loss of the sense Memories “The Over 55s club at of togetherness. This can needed social inclusion and Cedars Youth and then ultimately spiral into community cohesion more Community Centre is wider societal issues such as than ever and it can never be THRIVING WITH NEW additional costs to national achieved alone, so join us and FRIENDSHIP AND emergency services and a come together to improve COMMUNITY SPIRIT.” yourself and those around you. Participant Social Impact Report 2020 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION Social Impact Report 2020

“I’M SO GRATEFUL “Being involved with the Over AND APPRECIATE YOU 98% KICKS PROJECT GUYS SO MUCH! OF PARTICIPANTS REALLY HELPED 1,800 My son’s report from school like the PL Kicks MY DAUGHTER’S YOUNG PEOPLE has been very good recently staff and coaches. CONFIDENCE aged 8-18 engaged across and so much has changed as she was able to Watford, Harrow and 98% since you all have been 97% make new friends. She Hillingdon in a variety OF PARTICIPANTS working with him. I’m very OF PARTICIPANTS now looks forward to new of PL Kicks sessions, enjoy coming to pleased that he is helpful 97% feel welcome at challenges every week” with a breakdown of PL Kicks sessions. at times when it’s needed OF PARTICIPANTS PL Kicks sessions. PL Kicks Parent 23 DIFFERENT and he is always looking feel safe at ETHNICITIES, 440 forward to Kicks sessions” PL Kicks sessions. FEMALES engaged and PL Kicks Parent over 250 YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY.

38 39 Social Impact Report 2020 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION 04 WATFORD FC SOCIAL INCLUSION Social Impact Report 2020

WatfordFC WatfordFC Geoff Kodi

GOLDEN MEMORIES Memories can be a fragile thing, even more so PREMIER LEAGUE KICKS (PL KICKS) The positive impact on their daughter’s life is Watford Football Club fan for over 60 in clutches of the cruel disease of dementia, School, home, social life, or the safety clear to see for Kodi’s parents Linus and Vikki. years, with much of that time as a season but a feeling of reminiscence can reinvigorate of the environment around you, there is It shows, once again, that the Trust is about ticket holder, Geoff has always held those memories. This is what Golden plenty going on in a young person’s life more than football and that youth provision Vicarage Road close to his heart. Memories is built upon. The multi-sensory and mind, just ask Kodi. works across a number of activities, quite nature of these weekly sessions, from the often as a result of decisions and suggestions sound of Z-Cars playing on entry to the sight from young people themselves. Kodi came of the old matchday programmes, can spark a to the Centre shy and unsure about her recollection that can quickly grow into a smile. involvement. And now? Well you can read “He’s now smiling every week” explains below … Susan, “When I go to see him now, I hear “I feel Cedars dance has given me more 40 two things, number one is the Watford confidence. I look forward to going every 41 scores, number two is what has happened week and I’ve made new friends. The dance at Golden Memories, what he’s been up to, teachers are kind and enthusiastic which and which former player he has met. I can makes me want to dance more, my dancing see his spirit being lifted and he is just has definitely improved!” visibly happier.” It is important now, that more young people Sadly, there is no cure for dementia, but these are given the opportunity to find something reminiscence sessions can help, and whilst they enjoy, as Vikki recommends: lockdown has hampered the power of the So, when he was admitted to a care home Sport and activity are much more than “It has given her the opportunity to express sessions being held at the stadium, Geoff is herself in a safe environment and meet following a dementia diagnosis, one of Geoff’s clear on the support it can offer … just a happy distraction though, they can main passions was taken from him. That was bring together like-minded people, create new friends of a similar age. We feel these why as soon as his daughter Susan, who first “I was right down in the dumps, with friendships and provide opportunities for classes are a great opportunity for so many remembers attending a game with her dad at my wife being ill as well, it was Golden personal development. One of the ways young children especially those with a thirteen years of age, saw a promotion for the Memories that kept me going.” the Trust is providing these opportunities is passion for dance.” Golden Memories programme, she knew they through dance classes at their hub – Cedars had to get involved. Youth and Community Centre. Picked up in the Trust minibus by loyal “We are so grateful for the dance classes, volunteer Barry, Geoff was able to attend they have given Kodi so much. The staff Vicarage Road once again. Even if, the stadium are warm and friendly and help Kodi feel at has changed quite a bit since the days when ease. Her confidence has grown so much Geoff used to attend, in his words: and her passion for dance is even stronger!” “I don’t get wet when I come here now!” Social Impact Report 2020 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT Social Impact Report 2020 WatfordFC 05 sports

42 43 Social Impact Report 2020 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT Social Impact Report 2020

WATFORD FC Sport also has the ability of bringing people together, reducing the chance of anti-social SPORTS behaviour and reinforcing a true feeling of DEVELOPMENT community and family.

In our strategy we promised community and family. These that we would deliver are the core reasons why we accessible football and promise to continue delivering sporting activities, whilst these activities. promoting Watford FC and its However, it is one thing to family and community values. deliver sporting sessions and Ever since that first football clubs, but it is another to session in 1992, when we ensure all members of our began our journey as a communities have an equal deliverer to the community, chance to take part in and we have known that football, benefit from the activities. and sports more generally, We work hard to ensure local 44 have the power to make people, regardless of gender, 45 positive change to peoples’ age, race, background or ability, lives and wider society. Whilst are able to take up these we have grown exponentially opportunities, whether that’s come to the fore and utilising since then, this belief remains. a child taking part in a football a young person’s passion for Indeed, our football and sports course during the holidays, football can be the ignition programmes can work across or an after-school club with needed to spark a career. all our strategic priorities our coaches, or perhaps a We can support individuals to outlined in previous chapters. grassroots club taking part gain qualifications, coaching in a Watford FC matchday badges, First Aid, BTEC, A package. By increasing sports The physical and mental levels and even, more recently, participation, we are increasing health and wellbeing university Foundation Degrees. benefits of getting the amount of people who can access the amazing benefits We are passionate about involved in sports are of getting out and becoming getting more people in our unquestionable, but sports engaged in sports. communities to participate can also be used as a tool in sports and developing Once a player has the to improve an individual’s pathway of progress. In regard having somewhere to further those who already opportunity to participate, share our passion. learning and skills. continues to practice and to football we have a number of develop and improve technical development centres to achieve ability is important, and that is attend sessions, their ability and just that, working alongside what some of our programmes Sport also has the ability skills will develop. Therefore, are a host of avenues in the their grassroots clubs and a can provide. of bringing people together, it is important that they are industry, from coaching and player’s unique needs. Whilst reducing the chance of then supported and their As a player continues, a future sports sciences, to media and the leap to academies and anti-social behaviour and development is nurtured so in football goes further than operations. Beyond the age the professional game is high, reinforcing a true feeling of they are able to continue their just a career on the pitch, there of sixteen, these options can Social Impact Report 2020 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT Social Impact Report 2020

“WATFORD FC IS AN “This course allowed me to “PLAYING FOOTBALL “OVER THE YEARS, “Every coach that has 95% INTEGRAL PART OF THE play football and complete IN THE TALENT HUB WATFORD FC HAS MADE entered our school has been OF PRIMARY LOCAL COMMUNITY a BTEC at the same time. HAS BEEN A CHANCE A HUGE DIFFERENCE professional and friendly, and the Community Trust THE FOOTBALL AND TO PLAY FOOTBALL TO MY RELATIONSHIP HAS BUILT FANTASTIC SCHOOL PUPILS and PDC give a sense of EDUCATION SCHEME SERIOUSLY AND NOT BE WITH FOOTBALL. Through RELATIONSHIPS WITH stated that their belonging to this high profile, HELPED ME TO DEVELOP HELD BACK BY MY SEX the partnership with Herts OUR CHILDREN AND IS A MOVEMENT SKILLS popular and successful MY MATURITY AND MY OR DISABILITIES. Some Youth Inclusive Football VALUED MEMBER OF OUR HAD IMPROVED organisation.” Parent, Player INDEPENDENCE. But at coaches think you are less of and BY WITNESSING SCHOOL COMMUNITY. through the Premier League Development Centre the same time helped me to a player, or won’t ever be good WATFORD FC AT WORK IN Providing us with top quality Primary Stars. develop as a player. I gained enough to play professionally, THE COMMUNITY, I HAVE after school clubs developing my level 1 coaching badge but my disabilities actually SEEN THE POSITIVE many different skills, we WESTFIELD FOOTBALL whilst on the course and give me added super IMPACT THE CLUB HAS value the relationship we ACADEMY WON 11 I am now out in America skills when I play”. ON SO MANY LIVES. It has have with the Trust and hope made me think more deeply the National Football Youth PLAYERS on a football scholarship.” Elise, player, to continue to build on this.” about the power of football League (NFYL) South from our FA Talent Hub were Ronaldo Gashi, former FA Talent Hub PE Lead, Lanchester Division title for the second SELECTED TO BE PART and sport in general and how it Whitmore High School can help others both mentally Community Free School year running! OF THE REGIONAL Football and Education FA DISABILITY and physically and how it can Scheme player and student at create so many opportunities TALENT PATHWAY Coastal Bend College in Texas. for the South region. for all abilities. It has also 39 encouraged me to continue 7-16-YEAR-OLD to learn about football and YOUNG PEOPLE get involved more.” Tracy are a part of our FA Disability Light, secretary of Herts Youth Talent Hub, with 22 deaf and Inclusive Football 46 partially deaf players, 13 47 cerebral palsy players and We have 4 partially sighted players.

We engage with 583 TALENTED MALE AND 94 GRASSROOTS CLUBS through our various FEMALE PLAYERS offers of packages, Player taking part in our Development Centres Player Development Centres and matches. across five venues. A total of “I tell my son every week that he hit the jackpot being 31 schools given an opportunity by the partner with the Trust PDC. Regardless of how for extra-curricular long he is retained, I WILL activities and clubs. ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR THIS TRULY FANTASTIC CHANCE for him to develop at a crucial age.” Parent, Player Development Centre Social Impact Report 2020 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT 05 WATFORD FC SPORT & FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT Social Impact Report 2020

WatfordFC WatfordFC Joshua Shepherd Primary

Football enthusiast Joshua, now 18 years As well as the tournament, in which Watford Our partnership with schools has “The coaches deliver fun and engaging old, has been involved with the Trust for FC claimed the Fair Play award, Joshua, his long been a staple of our community lessons and foster very positive relationships several years. teammates, and our coaches, stayed together engagement. with the children they work with.” in the centre of Barcelona with guided tours of A school that continues to work with us Shepherd Primary are now part of the local area and home of FC Barcelona – the to improve pupil’s participation in sport is many schools across Hertfordshire and Camp Nou. It was no surprise then, that all the Shepherd Primary School in Rickmansworth, Harrow that are official partner schools, and players enjoyed their trip including Joshua: Hertfordshire. Claire Foad, Headteacher at for any potential new schools looking to get “I felt so proud to represent Watford FC in the school explains their relationship with involved with the Trust, the message from Barcelona. It made me feel valued and part the Trust: Claire is clear … of a team. An experience I’ll never forget and “I would not hesitate in recommending the one that I’m extremely grateful for. I wish Watford FC Trust.” 48 First as a pupil at The Collett School when I could do it all over again.” 49 taking part in one of our education projects. When the plane landed back in the UK, it was Before long, Joshua, who is autistic, took part clear the effects of the trip were a lot more in a work placement with the Trust, which long lasting. The Trust organised a reunion in included supporting our staff at tournaments the Spring of 2020, during a difficult time for for primary school children. After speaking everyone, to see how the players were getting with our staff about a willingness to join a local on, with a special guest joining the call … inclusive football team, we made the contact with Hemel Aces FC. Then in 2019, Joshua “I’ve made friends for life from the trip, we’ve kept in touch and we even had a Zoom chat was invited, alongside seven other players from “We have been working with the Trust for where Adrian Mariappa joined us! It was a great different local Hertfordshire teams (Bedwell many years - they deliver weekly sports Rangers, Everett Rovers FC, Hemel Aces FC, lift during lockdown. Just what we needed.” lessons to all children in Years 1-6 and run St Albans City Youth FC), to take part in the It has been fantastic to see Joshua grow football and tennis after school clubs. They X International Trophy Ciutat de Barcelona in confidence and form friendships with his work closely with us to ensure they deliver Football 5-a-side tournament. An event teammates, an impression that was clearly the required elements of our PE curriculum organised by the Catalan Sports Federation for made on his uncle Stephen as well … – this includes lessons in multi-skills, People with Intellectual Disabilities (ACELL), “I’m a fellow Watford supporter, and I am athletics, netball, football and tag-rugby.” together with Special Olympics Catalunya and very proud of what my club has done this the City Council of Barcelona. For some of the More proof, if it were needed, that the Trust is past weekend (the tournament) not just for players it was their first time abroad, let alone about much more than just football. Working Joshua but all the players, thank you. I know representing Watford FC in an international with a school for a long time, delivering Watford FC have done brilliantly for people tournament. For Joshua, as his uncle Stephen several different sessions, will of course have with disabilities, especially with their Sensory explains, ‘it was the first time he had been positive effects on their connections with staff Room and this adds to my proudness.” away from his family with just his very caring and pupils alike, as Claire continues: brother Aaron with him’. Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020 WatfordFC 06 strong foundations

50 51 Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020

CEDARS YOUTH & MERIDEN COMMUNITY CENTRE COMMUNITY CENTRE

52 53

Situated in Harrow Weald we “Great services, friendly staff We took over Meriden “Great place! THE TRUST took over the management and and a GREAT PLACE FOR Community Centre in 2012, PROVIDE EXCELLENT running of our first community 98% OVER 50’s TO MAKE NEW but it was not until 2016 until 2,643 SERVICE to the community WOULD RECOMMEND hub - Cedars YCC - opened in FRIENDS.” we were able to launch a CENTRE MEMBERS and the children by offering our facilities to their friends. 2012 following a £4.2- million- renovated space for the local activities that all can enjoy.” pound investment. In 2019 our “GOOD ACTIVITIES community after a £2 million centre grew further still, with and a clean facility” investment. Further funding in 268 “GREAT STAFF a £930, 000 extension to the 90% 2018 meant we could restore GYM MEMBERS AND COACHES, always upstairs space. Facilities at the of centre users “My kids absolutely the centre’s play area. friendly and welcoming.” centre now include outdoor 4G said that we have LOVE IT” The centre’s facilities include Astroturf pitch, an indoor sports KNOWLEDGEABLE AND a 3G artificial grass pitch, male “Staff always friendly hall, a social space, a community FRIENDLY STAFF. and female changing rooms, 4.5 stars and helpful. GOOD gym, IT suite, kitchen, and community gym, main hall, GOOGLE REVIEW FACILITIES.” meeting rooms. Used as a base flexible space, meeting room for several of our projects and and café. We are now able to activities, Cedars YCC is also a offer a variety of activities, fantastic space and facility for clubs and community support a number of local organisations CONTACT at the centre, with the rooms CONTACT and individuals, including Harrow :0208 4214676 available for hire to a range of :01923 894862 Mencap and local schools. :[email protected] local people. :[email protected]

OUR PARTNERS OUR PARTNERS Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020

WATFORD FC VOLUNTEERS

“Having now volunteered for the Trust for over two years, IT STILL CONTINUES TO AMAZE AND INSPIRE ME HOW MUCH THEY DO FOR THE LOCAL 85% COMMUNITIES. It is a rated their volunteering humbling and extremely experience with the Trust rewarding experience.” as ‘EXCELLENT’ with the remaining 15% “Volunteering gives me the rated it as ‘GOOD’ feeling that I AM GIVING 54 SOMETHING BACK TO 55 MY COMMUNITY. I find it rewarding and humbling at The Trust have an array of 100% the same time” volunteers spanning the ages said they would from 13 years old upward. RECOMMEND Whether the volunteers are VOLUNTEERING “It makes me feel happy, students, full-time workers WITH THE TRUST because I feel like I CAN HELP YOUNG PEOPLE and or retired, their support is to a friend or colleague. teach them something new.” invaluable to the community work going on across the Trust. VOLUNTEERING “My experience has been OUTCOMES fulfilling and it is a very nice The Trust asked its feeling to be able to THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS 90% volunteers which areas had GIVE BACK TO PEOPLE OF VOLUNTEERS improved since they started WHO NEED IT.” Aaron Emmanuel, Adam Cummings, Alessandro Joseph, Allan Flowers, Anna Overton, Barry felt they had been working with the Trust. Beasley, Barry Freedman, Bec Nash, Ben Williams, Bill Melsome, Brian Linnegar, Brian Moorehouse, SUFFICIENTLY Here is a summary of “VERY REWARDING Carol Robinson, Charlie Chandler, Christopher Baker, Colin Westlake, David Quick, Ella Fox, Geoff SUPPORTED what they said … EXPERIENCE AND Wicken, Georgia Mays, Gill Crowson, Hazel Bulling, Jack James, Jack Sapwell, Jake Clark, James BY THE TRUST Emotional Well-being 55 A FEELING OF Lindsay, James Whitcombe, Jeremy Rance, Jill Flowers, Jo Zanetti, Josie Ogle, Julie Kempston, during the coronavirus Confidence45 SELF-WORTH BY Karl Belcher, Kieren Rees, Lauren Fox, Liam Fortune, Luca Rossetto, Luther Blissett, Lynn Kirke pandemic and the Social Skills 55 HELPING OTHERS. Smith, Malcolm Nobbs, Matthew Aldous, Max Booth, Michele Hillsdon, Moataz Khalifa, Mya Cox, lockdown period Learnt a lot of very Nathan Davies, Neil Austin, Oliver Storey, Pete Bradshaw, Prince Arthur, Rebecca Holt, Ricky Sager, Teamwork 45 interesting facts and life Rita Taylor, Ruby Jager, Scott Daniels, Shelley Freedman, Sheree Willis, Shirlie Halladey, Stanley Personal outlook 60 experiences through talking White, Steve Freedman, Sue Howse, Teresa Flaherty, Tia Thompson, Tim Streeton, Tony Marks, Feeling of belonging 60 with people.” Tyler Ashton, Wendy Smith, Zaki Hussein Empathy 5 Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020

WATFORD FC PARTNERSHIPS

formalise this. As part of this ongoing commitment, we are delighted to partner and offer financial support to the Trust BUGLER GROUP and envisage this relationship Welcome to the TK Maxx and Local, family owned business continuing for many years to Homesense Foundation who Bugler Group, are long come.” Andy Bugler, Bugler recently came on board to standing partners of Watford Group Chief Executive. support our Premier League FC and current Executive Club Inspires Programme, helping Members at Vicarage Road. to inspire children and young CORPORATE SPORTS DAY This season they have chosen people to develop their This fun-filled event hosted to go a step further with a personal skills and positive in the Dome at Watford FC’s £10,000 donation to the Trust. 56 attitudes to succeed in life. training ground was sponsored 57 MK GINDER & SONS by Metro Bank Watford, who Our longest serving partners, also entered a team to take MK Ginder & Sons continue on BNI, Heart Hertfordshire, to support the work of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Trust. Their year on year SEASON TICKET REFUNDS Commerce, ProHal Chartered support plays a vital role in the When the pandemic and Certified Accountants and continued delivery of a host of lockdown hit, it became clear James Hallam Ltd; with our projects and activities in that the only way we would entertainment provided by the local community. all get through it all was with 2.6 CHALLENGE Strictly A Capella and catering kindness and community spirit. Following the cancellation of courtesy of Nando’s Watford.

That was shown fantastically fundraising events throughout by Watford FC supporters who, “Metro Bank Watford were “As a business based in the the year, the team behind the extremely proud to sponsor Watford area and with the when live football attendances London Marathon organized came to a halt, chose to donate the Corporate Sports Day. Bugler family’s life-long the ‘2.6 Challenge’. Among It was a pleasure and an support of Watford FC, we their season ticket refunds to those getting involved for STEVEN EAGELL TOYOTA the Trust. We are thankful to honour to support two superb have always been aware of This local car dealership the Trust were Watford FC local charities in the Trust and and admired the great work those that were able to support Women’s captain Helen Ward, have once again showed us. Once again, the Watford FC Herts Inclusive Theatre. the Trust has done in helping their support to our shared who ran 2.6 miles every day In all, a very well organised a diverse range of local people family shows it is about much for 10 days, and players Renee community and to the Trust more than just football. and well supported event.” and initiatives. with the donation of a new Hector and Ryah Vyse, who Martin Witherden, Local Throughout the years, we branded van, helping us get ran 2.6 miles and cycled for 26 Business Manager, Metro Bank. have supported numerous our coaches and equipment to minutes every day for 10 days, charitable and community a host of different venues and raising over £600. causes, establishing the schools across Hertfordshire Bugler Foundation in 2019 to and Harrow. Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020

WATFORD FC A POSITIVE & SUSTAINABLE CHARITY DATA FOR FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING 30 JUNE 2019 STRATEGY A host of stakeholders and Watford FC fans attended the launch of the Trust’s three-year Investments £11,337 strategy ‘The Way Forward’ Other trading activities Donations and legacies in The View at Vicarage Road £76,627 £239,242 Stadium. To help tell our story, several of our beneficiaries, many of whom are featured in this report, spoke with host Total income: £3,529,498 Emma Saunders on stage. To view the strategy in full, visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com/ 58 59 about-us/our-strategy/ Charitable activities NEW WEBSITE £3,202,292 Last season saw the launch of a new Trust website, Total income includes exceptional funding in the year for capital improvement use thanks to local business Scout Digital. The site has been has gained extra vigour with current and future projects. given a new and vibrant look, Raising funds the appointment of our EDI One of the key ways in improved customer experience £49,849 Strategic Lead, who now leads which we are doing this is by and built in accessibility our drive to instil these values improving our data collection software Recite Me. into our work and personnel, and analysis processes to with the support of several in- understand who we are INVESTORS IN PEOPLE house EDI Champions and an engaging and what services Total expenditure: We received Investors in Equality Action Plan that works we need to provide. In £3,013,300 People accreditation and are in partnership with Watford FC. addition we are giving our now working towards the Particular focus at present staff opportunities to take part next level to continue our in training linked to the nine commitment to a positive is embedding an inclusive recruitment process, including protected characteristics. environment for our staff. Charitable activities anonymising applications £2,963,451 forms, to ensure diversity EQUALITY, DIVERSITY across our staff, volunteer AND INCLUSION and Trustee teams. We are Equality, Diversity and also working on creating more For full information search our Charity number: 1102239 on the Charity Inclusion continue to be at the inclusive opportunities and Commission’s website at www.register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/ forefront of everything we do environments for all members as a charity. This work of our community within our Social Impact Report 2020 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS 06 WATFORD FC STRONG FOUNDATIONS Social Impact Report 2020

PROJECT GLOSSARY

ACTIVE WATFORD EXTRA TIME JOY OF MOVING POSITIVE MINDS PREMIER LEAGUE RAISE EXERCISE & THREE RIVERS For people aged 55+ designed to This includes Move & Learn – Mental health and wellbeing INSPIRES Fitness classes facilitated at Health coaching and supporting improve members’ social, physical, a healthy lifestyles programme programme with three strands: An education programme Vicarage Road Stadium for inactive people in Watford and and emotional well-being. delivered as part of the Coach the Approach aimed at young people aged staff of West Herts Hospitals. Three Rivers to help them curriculum to pupils in Year A free 3-hour training course between 11-25 years old, who become more active through 4 and 5; and Joy of Moving designed to upskill grassroots are marginalised or at risk of motivational interviewing and festivals – one off events to get sports coaches in mental not reaching their potential. behaviour change. FDA FOOTBALL the whole school moving. SCHOOLS PROVISION DEVELOPMENT AND health support techniques. Working with schools to COACHING Education deliver several sports activities Foundation degree delivered Ten-week prevention-agenda PREMIER LEAGUE KICKS through extra-curricular clubs 61 60 BUILDING BETTER in conjunction with Middlesex MATCHDAY ACTIVITIES programme delivered in A programme offering a variety and in-curriculum lessons. OPPORTUNITIES (BBO) – University, combining practical This includes pre-match primary schools, combining of sporting activities and HERTS YOUTH FUTURES coaching, underpinning theory coaching packages, birthday classroom and practical based youth clubs aimed at diverting A programme supporting and work-based learning within parties, matchday mascots sessions to engage students young people from anti-social SHAPE UP young people furthest from football development & coaching. and schools’ half-time penalty with the topic of mental health, behaviour and building stronger An adult weight management the workplace to improve shoot-outs. develop resilience and positive communities. employability and enter project encouraging positive coping strategies PREMIER LEAGUE training or work. behaviour change and GOLDEN MEMORIES Man on! KICKS TARGETED sustainable weight loss. A reminiscence programme for NATIONAL A 90-minute wellbeing session A referral programme with those with mild to moderate CITIZEN SERVICE for men aged 18 to 65 years one-to-one intervention COMIC RELIEF EMPOWER dementia using the history of A national life skills and old, using physical activity and designed to improve behaviours Referral programme designed Watford FC as a basis for stimulus. personal development facilitated Mental Wellbeing and to decrease the risks WESTFIELD workshops. associated with youth violence. FOOTBALL ACADEMY for children aged 9-12 years GOLDEN FRIENDS programme for 15-17-year olds, old, using physical activity and delivered locally by the Trust. Post-16 programme delivered An extension of Golden in partnership with Westfield Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Memories, to continue friendship ONSIDE to elicit positive changes in Academy, combining football groups and extend support. A football-based project for PREMIER LEAGUE young people’s mental health PLAYER and academic studies. 8-18-year olds designed to PRIMARY STARS and wellbeing. DEVELOPMENT CENTRES empower young people to Player Development sessions A national curriculum-linked be actively involved in their at various locations across education programme using HOLIDAY COURSES community. Hertfordshire and Harrow for the appeal of the Premier WHITMORE HIGH Fun and educational football ‘advanced’ grassroots football League and Watford FC to SCHOOL FOOTBALL AND FA DISABILITY and multi-sport activities TALENT HUB players 6-16 years old. inspire children to learn, be EDUCATION SCHEME delivered at a variety of venues active and develop life skills. Post-16 programme delivered Provides football opportunities for boys and girls aged 5 – for talented players aged 7-17 in partnership with Whitmore 12 years old during school High School, combining years old and is part of The FA’s holidays (excluding Christmas). England Talent pathway. football and academic studies. Social Impact Report 2020 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB Social Impact Report 2020

The original 07 FAMILY CLUB

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62 63 Social Impact Report 2020 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB Social Impact Report 2020

THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB

Year on year, Watford FC men’s, women’s, and academy players, continue to support the local community. The 2019-20 season was no different, as some of our favourite examples show… INSPIRING YOUNG PEOPLE A terrific expression of community at Cedars Youth and Community Centre as Adekite Fatuga-Dada, 64 Adrian Mariappa, Andre Gray, 65 Nathaniel Chalobah, and Nina Wilson, all joined a PL Kicks relaunch event with speaking about our mental Tony Collins and Bill Shipwright local young people. The players health. Yes, there were as part of the 75th anniversary got involved in a number of some fantastic community of VE Day. Watford FC’s ‘one activities offered on a regular appearances but, of course, club’ commitment to equality. basis by the Trust. Table tennis, this year was different. This was illustrated by Watford table football, dance, football, Players turned to technology FC Women’s squad number gaming, and a session in the to keep these appearances selection move to put the music studio were all on the going during the pandemic. spotlight on black history and agenda and the Golden Boys A WATFORD FC seasonal photoshoot. The Hornets at Home initiative, anti-discrimination education and Girls made sure to get FAMILY CHRISTMAS These are clearly just some mentioned in Chapter One of which they carried through involved in them all! Watford FC men’s and of the highlights; there have this report, saw players show into schools, and players such BEN AND MOLLY women’s squads joined been countless more. their support with calls to as Andre Gray’s expression of In December 2019, Hornets Junior Hornets and Trust Will Hughes turned up to season ticket holders and those racial stereotyping on national goalkeeper Ben Foster made a participants for a festive surprise secondary school most vulnerable. There were television. We are proud of special visit to 12-year-old Molly party like no other, in the pupils at the launch of our PL academy scholar question and them and continue to support Hall. v chatted with Foster and True enough, when Watford media suite at Vicarage Road Inspires programme, Adekite answer sessions for our Player our players in this. Stadium. Given the venue soon formed a close friendship. took on Liverpool at Vicarage Fatuga-Dada, Adrian Mariappa Development Centre players, was the media suite, a press After hearing of her wish to see Road Stadium, Molly attended and Daniel Bachman attended Adrian Mariappa spoke with conference would be held as her team play at Vicarage Road, as official matchday mascot, our strategic launch event, Ben our disability team, and Troy expected, but the questions Foster made her a promise. leading out the team, hand Foster chatted with Positive Deeney shared an online were definitely a little different! in hand, with her new mate Minds: Man On! participants session with former Hornets There was a host of Christmas Ben Foster. about the importance of and World War 2 veterans games, a signing session and a Social Impact Report 2020 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB Social Impact Report 2020

A hugely positive experience for everyone at Fighting Fit Football and we thank Watford for your continued support!

Following the end of The man with a big reach contracts, we said goodbye and a bigger heart, Heurelho to two Watford FC legends Gomes may have come from who always showed their across the globe, but this support for the Trust… Brazilian quickly became The Watford FC community FOOTBALL REMEMBERS SENSORY ROOM Born in nearby Harrow, part of the Watford FC spirit is not however just about To commemorate the 75th The Sensory Room at Vicarage Adrian Mariappa was involved family. Winning affection the players or our work as the anniversary of VE Day marking Road continues to be a beacon with Watford FC by the age of from supporters for his club’s registered charity. It is, the end of World War II in of inclusivity at Vicarage Road. eight, even taking part in the fantastic reflexes and joyous perhaps most importantly, the Europe, four players from the Not only has it seen more than Trust’s holiday course sessions celebrations, Gomes took his very DNA of this club. It is how under 15s in the Watford FC 100 families with a child on Academy visited former Hornet the autistic spectrum attend a as he was growing up. It’s no loveable personality into his with our community centres a link to community values is Tony Collins, to hear memories matchdays at Vicarage Road, surprise then that throughout community appearances. that we remember so well, portrayed across Watford FC from his remarkable life. but this year also hosted a 66 his ten years of first-team It was Heurelho’s affiliation including official openings at as one club. Here, we’ve picked 67 Collins, now 94, was called up Family Fun Day. The event was service, the Jamaican Meriden Community Centre out a few of the successes to serve in 1944 when he was hosted in partnership with Anna international always and the Cedars Youth and from across the club over the 18. After the war, Tony went on Kennedy Online – a charity completely understood and Community Centre extension. 2019/20 season … to play for Watford FC during that is dedicated to promoting appreciated the work of the The Hornet’s goalkeeper even JUNIOR HORNETS Trust, regularly showing his two spells in the 1950s. the inclusion and equality of brought his children to take Watford FC’s free junior children and adults with an support and offering his time This was part of a wider part in courses at the latter, as membership scheme continued autism spectrum condition. to make many fans and Trust well as making frequent visits with a host of events, activities Premier League project, participants very happy. to our team based there. and resources. There was the with Martyn Heather, Head Jo Wiggins has a son with A great man, and a great annual open day event in the of Education at the Premier Asperger’s, lives in Watford and Thank you Heurelho! volunteers for Anna Kennedy servant to our club and Dome with both the men’s and League, remarking that the Football Remembers Online. Reflecting on the event community, thank you Mapps. women’s squads, as well as the aforementioned Christmas WWII project epitomised Jo said: “The club very kindly party, and a bowling event at the League’s commitment to hosted a family fun day for Hollywood Bowl. developing “academy players those with autism and it proved as young men of quality and a huge success. The families Junior Hornets also got good character off the pitch got to have a detailed tour involved during lockdown with as well as on it”. around the stadium, meet several messages and posters Harry the Hornet, spend time created for the NHS and our socialising with other families Vicarage Road neighbours at and they were made to feel Watford General Hospital. most welcome. For most it was the first time in a football ground and the ‘wow’ moment from their reactions was very emotional to watch.” Social Impact Report 2020 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB 07 THE ORIGINAL FAMILY CLUB Social Impact Report 2020

68 THE DOME a range of community training dome for our weekly 69 It isn’t just the Watford FC groups, a process managed training sessions. We often say men’s first team that get by the Trust, including Fighting that “football is our medicine” to make use of the indoor Fit Football, St Albans City because regular exercise is so training facility at London Deaf Team, St Johns Deaf fundamental in helping relieve WE CAMPAIGN Colney. Watford FC Women, Team, Hertfordshire Day the symptoms of Parkinson’s, The club’s We campaign was launched early last season as a result the Academy, and the Trust Services, Clore Shalom so having access to the of online racist abuse aimed at our black players. The campaign all regularly use the Dome. Primary School, Potential Kids, Dome for regular training provided a clearer route for supporters to report anti-discriminatory It’s definitely a space for the Watford Mencap and Herts and match play has made incidents, which had led to an increase in reports received when whole Hornets family. And the Youth Inclusive Football. such a tremendous compared to the previous season, from 11 to 20. Hornets family extends far “I run a football team for beyond those directly involved, people with Parkinson’s so it is only right that external disease called Fighting Fit 3 1 5 community groups also get to Football and Watford FC (via WENT THROUGH AN SUPPORTER SUPPORTERS make use of the Dome. There the Community Trust) kindly EDUCATIONAL PROCESS has also been charged with WERE BANNED FROM has been plenty of usage from donate access to their fantastic 1 of these supporters a racially motivated offence, VICARAGE ROAD for also attended an external which will shortly be the using discriminatory and/or equality workshop with Blue subject of a crown court trial. abusive language. Tulip Consultancy during their stadium ban. INCREASE from 11 11 reports in 2018/19 to 20 WERE REPORTED TO reports in 2019/20 season. and DEALT WITH by Herts Police as Hate Crime. Social Impact Report 2020 Social Impact Report 2020

Rob Smith COMMUNITY DIRECTOR

This has certainly been a year like As individuals working within a local We can all choose our attitude with regards no other! We started the year with charity, it has certainly made us reflect to how we respond in times of adversity. a celebration event at the stadium on how fragile life is, not to take things Working alongside such committed and to share stories from some of our for granted, to be grateful for the simple passionate colleagues who responded in beneficiaries with guests, to showcase things and to appreciate those precious such a proactive, innovative and agile way our 2019 social impact report and to human moments with friends and to ensure our services continued, I can launch our new three-year strategy family. In adversity we have certainly assure you that we pledge to play our part (The Way Forward). drawn inspiration from the courage and in tackling the challenges that lie ahead. dedication of neighbouring NHS staff and At this point we had a clear plan and key workers everywhere. As always, we can only achieve what we focus for the next 12 months and how we do because of the fantastic support from intended to make a positive difference in It is important that we look to the future the football club, our partners, volunteers, the communities we serve. We had no now and how we can ensure that we play trustees, patrons and of course the hard idea of what lay ahead, and the impact our part and support those people and work of our staff, listed below. that Covid-19 would have. communities who need our help. Whilst the landscape and the way we deliver our Best wishes to you all for a happy and 70 There have of course been so many services has changed, the priorities within healthy 2021. 71 challenges, for so many people, over our strategy remain hugely relevant. We the last nine months, but there is also a recognise that we must play an active role lot to be proud of and to be thankful for. in improving peoples’ physical and mental Hopefully as you have read this report health and wellbeing. We must continue you have been able to see the valuable to provide opportunities for people to learn contribution the Trust and the wider new skills for life and work and it is crucial Watford FC family have made during that we bring people together, so that they these very difficult times. feel less socially isolated and lonely.

Adam Hallybone, Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Alison Goodchild, Ana Popov*, Andy Garlick, WITH THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS Angela Benjamin, Anne-Marie Burn, Aubrey Russell, Ben Simms*, Ben Wells, Brima Johnson, Daniel Proberts*, Dave Byrne, Debbie Willerton, Derrick Williams, Gemma Hamlet*, Grace Williams, Hannah Chambers, Hannah Foster, Helen Ward, Hollie Chappin, Jackie Wynne, Jess Howse*, Jodie Whitford-Stark*, Jodine Williams, Julia Nichol, Karen Daly, Karen Stephanou, Karrington Shann, Kathy Ford, Kennedy Morgan, Kristian Hitchins, Laura Dyer*, Laura Figg, Liam Dwyer*, Lou Barry, Lucy Tearle, Luke Beaumont, Mark Timmington, Matt Watt, Matthew Nelson, Michael Jones*, Michael Williams, Natasha Hiscock*, Neil Deans, Paul King*, Rachael Knight, Rachel Tucker, Rebecca Chapman, Rhys Ratcliffe, Rich Bulling, Rob Clarke, Rob Smith, Robin O’Brien, Ryan Gunn*, Ryan Sullivan, Sally Morehouse, Sean Flaherty, Sophie Read, Stacey Pelling*, Steve Alexander, Steve Smith, Steve Williams, Sue Mileham, Tamora Burford, Tate Macpherson, Taylor Morrison, Tiffany Samuda, Tracy Bambrough. *These staff have now left the Trust, we thank them for their hard work during the course of the year. A special thanks to our team of over 100 members of casual staff. For many, these are the first people you will see when interacting with the Trust and their fantastic enthusiasm is pivotal to our success. HOW YOU CAN HELP…

DONATE: GET INVOLVED BECOME A www.watfordfccsetrust. in one of our BUSINESS PARTNER com/make-a-donation/ fundraising challenges of the Trust

LEAVE A LEGACY MAKE US YOUR VOLUNTEER in your will to CHARITY OF CHOICE with the Trust when fundraising the Trust

HELP PROMOTE OUR WORK in your groups and circles or through social media, tagging @WFCTrust

CONTACT [email protected] for more information or to get involved in any of the above.

The work within this report and every year, is dedicated to the legacy of Graham Taylor OBE. Forever in our Hornet hearts.

With thanks to volunteer Mike Raggett and our local printing partner Metroprinting. Designed by Andy Simmons

@WFCTrust www.watfordfccsetrust.com