Built on three pillars – Wellbeing, Community and Futures – the 2025-2030 strategy outlines how programmes such as Chelsea Foundation’s adapted sports provision, including walking football and extensive education delivery in local schools, will help to bring people together, improve health and shape brighter futures. Chelsea Foundation will work with players, fans and local groups to strengthen communities locally and globally.

According to Survation polling commissioned by Chelsea Foundation of 2,000 people across the UK:

Disconnection

Just 15 per cent feel strongly tied to their community with almost all age groups spending more time scrolling than socialising in their communities. For Gen Z (18–24 year-olds) that figure drops to 11 per cent, and nine per cent for Gen X (45-54 year-olds). Three in 10 say their community is weaker than five years ago; only seven per cent say it is stronger.

A desire to rebuild

The country wants to reconnect, with 68 per cent saying it is important to restore community bonds and more than two-thirds want stronger community bonds, with six in 10 seeing sport as the best way forward. Nearly two-thirds say football clubs are a force for good in their local area, whether by bringing people together or giving back to communities through programmes and initiatives.

Huge benefits in community activities or sports

Eighty-five per cent feel the main drivers in taking part in community activities or sports would be improving physical or mental health, meeting new people, or helping others within their community.

Laura Cordingley, CEO of Chelsea Foundation, said: ‘The hopeful sign within this survey is that people want to reconnect and sport is seen as one of the best ways to do that. We all know the value of belonging and trust. Now is the chance to rebuild that sense of community.

‘Our new five-year strategy will do just that – from open sports activities to support programmes – working with Chelsea players, fans and local groups to strengthen the bonds that hold us together.

‘Chelsea Foundation is where pride in our club becomes impact in our community. We believe in the power of our club, our fans and our partners to bring people together, create healthier lives and shape brighter futures.’

Millie Bright OBE, Chelsea FC Women’s captain and trustee of Chelsea Foundation, commented: ‘I am honoured to be a trustee of the Chelsea Foundation and passionate about inspiring future generations both on and off the pitch.

I have thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with Chelsea Foundation on a number of initiatives and I look forward to continuing my role as trustee of Chelsea Foundation and working together as part of this new five-year strategy.’

Reece James, Chelsea FC captain, added: 'I’m proud to belong to a club that takes community seriously. Together with Chelsea Foundation, we’ll play our part in building these ties in Chelsea and beyond.

From starting my career in the Academy to progressing to club captain, I have seen first-hand the work of the Chelsea Foundation, and we look forward to continuing our support in the years ahead.'