Darlington FC Foundation chairman Steve Rose gives us an update on the activities of the Foundation, which was granted charity status last year.

Summary of main charitable objectives:

• To promote health and wellbeing in Darlington and surrounding areas through football related and other sporting activities;
• To help develop sporting opportunities and facilities in Darlington and surrounding areas;
• To support the development of new sports clubs and organisations;
• To support other activities that help support the community in Darlington and surrounding areas.

In addition, DFCF will act as the conduit for generation of resources only available to charitable organisations and football foundations on behalf of DFC. We are currently awaiting the outcome of a bid to the National League Trust (NLT) and County Durham Community Foundation that will enable us to develop the programme in 2020.

Intended programme:

• Football in the Community – delivered by Sporting Futures Limited using DFCF branding as a profit share programme in school holidays running out of the Dolphin Centre. If successful, the National League Trust (NLT) funds will be used to extend this programme into target community areas with subsidised sessions available at nominal cost;
• Football in Schools – Delivered by Sporting Futures Limited using DFCF branding as a profit share programme;
• Holiday Enrichment Programme – running alongside the Football in the Community Programme, it is intended to use NLT funds to commission local organisations to run a holiday activity programme that includes a full lunch for those taking part as well as a range of activities not football related;

Sport & Exercise for Women – NLT funds will be used to deliver a 12-week programme of exercise and sporting activity for women delivered at the Dolphin Centre in conjunction with Darlington Sports Development Team and Sporting Futures Limited;

• Support for sports clubs – NLT funds will be used to support existing and emerging clubs including helping to meet the costs of those participating in the National League Under 11s Cup;
• Whilst DFCF does not act as the main community engagement function of the football club or the supporters group, it is hoped to use the DFCF brand to develop the notion of Fans in Action whereby DFC supporters are seen to be helping others in the community by supporting local charities and good works;
• DFCF will also look to develop a small grants programme for individuals and groups when resources allow (not eligible for NLT funds).

Incorporated as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Charity No. 1185957) as the charitable arm of Darlington Football Club Limited