Oxford United in the Community has been acknowledged for its work in Oxfordshire with the awarding of ‘Capability Status’ by the Premier League and English Football League.
Over the summer the charity has undergone significant scrutiny to ensure that it is fit for purpose, and to receive funding to run EFL Trust and Premier League programmes. For the PL Primary Stars programme the charity has seen a 167% increase in funding, which will enable it to extend its work to more children in the county.
The Capability Status process is forensic in drilling down into all areas of the charity’s policy and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety, management performance, strategic planning, human resources, financial and governance arrangements.
Kate Longworth, Chief Executive of the charity, said: “We are delighted with the news this week. It was a very tough process this year and last, which has seen the charity go on a very positive journey.
"It is difficult to imagine a better team of staff, volunteers and Trustees. We’re so grateful to all of them for their hard work. Everyone has put in a lot of hours and effort to make this progress possible, and in doing so they will impact in many lives, young and old, in the county.”
"In everything we do we are really proud to represent Oxford United, and grateful to Darryl, Benn and all at the club for their unwavering support. Similarly the EFL Trust and Premier League Communities put a huge amount of time and effort into helping us deliver the best outcomes for every person, young and old, with whom we work.”
Paul Charles, Chair of Trustees, said: “I would like to thank all the staff and volunteers of Oxford United in the Community, who work so hard and are dedicated to really helping make a difference. They are using football as a vehicle to address the most pressing needs in our community, including education, mental health, safeguarding vulnerable children, and isolated groups such as the elderly, disabled, refugees and asylum seekers.”
"I would also like to thank the club for all of its support and encouragement in this work. It can’t fail to be recognised, both locally and nationally, that Oxford United takes very seriously its commitment to be at the heart of the community.”
For more information, please navigate to the ‘Community’ tab above, or email enquiries@oufc.co.uk.