First Minister Alex Salmond praised the positive impact SPL clubs are having on the economy and local communities.
Charlie Bennett, Head of Adult Learning and Motherwell FC in the Community, helped launch the SPL Community Report at Hampden on Thursday, which unveils the unique contribution that SPL clubs make to the Scottish economy and society.
[onlymembers]Motherwell FC has a significant impact on Motherwell and surrounding areas through engaging with the local community on a range of projects aimed at improving the lives of local people. The positive impact on their local area goes far beyond 90 minutes on a Saturday:
- 1,500 participants per week take part in MFC community projects
- 360 hours spent on community activity each week
- 10 separate initiatives currently in operation
Many of the projects are aligned with Scottish Government National Outcomes and aim to deliver on:
- Physical activity & healthy living messages
- Social inclusion to build strong communities
- Creating employment opportunities and life chances
- Reducing crime through diversionary activities
– SPL Community Report 2011 – the full document
– SPL Community Report 2011 – summary version
On the launch of the report, Charlie Bennett said: “Here at Motherwell Football Club we will continue to use the power of football to engage, enthuse and motivate people irrespective of age, ability, or gender
“We are fully committed to offering all members of the local community access to the highest quality programme of grassroots football, lifelong learning, employability initiatives and health awareness programmes from which they can fundamentally change their lives for the better.”
On a national level, First Minister Alex Salmond has given his backing to the Report and said: “I welcome the publication of this comprehensive SPL Community Report, which provides clear evidence of the very positive work that SPL clubs are doing in their communities.
The Scottish Government recognises the valuable contribution that football clubs make to our local and national economy and to wider society. That is why we are supporting many of these initiatives and we are looking to develop these to ensure we maximise the local and national impact of our investment in football and sport.”
SPL Chief Executive, Neil Doncaster said: “The SPL Community Report showcases the excellent work that has often gone unrecognised across our clubs. Those in charge of developing community activity have a wealth of experience and expertise that has been used to create new and innovative projects that now deliver benefit not only to their supporters, but also the wider community.
“The unique hook of a football club is being used to engage with traditionally hard to reach groups, and we are proud our clubs have such a significant impact on their local community.”[/onlymembers]