As of 1 June new guidelines were published allowing outdoor football training or fitness activities in groups of no more than six, keeping two metres apart at all times.

This new guidance has allowed the Foundation staff to quickly plan and action new training sessions for young people in our communities, with our Football Development Centres returning in various locations this week.

Further plans will include the return of our Premier League Kicks programme, which supports young people aged 8 to 18 years old in their community, with the Foundation working in Kensington and Chelsea, Hammersmith and Fulham, Wandsworth and Westminster.

Foundation head of region Dan Jacquart said: ‘We are delighted to be back on the pitches with the participants, doing what we do best.

‘To be able to run these adapted sessions in a safe environment has given the parents, participants and coaches a real boost during what has been a difficult and frustrating time.

‘We can’t wait to see these sessions develop further and more of our groups having the opportunity to take part.

The Chelsea Foundation prides itself on our levels of care for our participants and that is even more important during the coronavirus pandemic. There will be no sharing of equipment and personal protective equipment will be worn by our coaches, while all sites will have access to hand sanitiser or soap and water.

Please be reminded, if an individual is symptomatic, living in a household with a possible COVID-19 infection or if you are classified as extremely vulnerable on health grounds, the guidance is that you should remain at home.

For further information on what we are now able to offer in your area contact [email protected]