Flutter Reintroduces Cash4Clubs Initiative to Support Grassroots Sports

The igaming operator, Flutter UKI, has announced the return of its renowned ‘Cash4Clubs’ initiative, pledging £200,000 in support for community clubs and charitable organizations throughout the remainder of the year.

This rejuvenated initiative offers relief to financially challenged sports entities across the UK and Ireland, enabling them to apply for grants up to £2,000 each. These funds can be allocated to enhance facilities, acquire new equipment, support coaching endeavors, or fortify the overall sustainability of their establishments.

Since its inception in 2008, Flutter has channeled almost £5 million into community sports through its distinct brands, such as Betfair, Paddy Power, Sky Betting & Gaming, and tombola. Notably, in response to the pandemic’s challenges, Flutter aptly renamed the initiative to ‘Clubs in Crisis’, generously contributing over £4 million from business rates relief to assist organizations grappling with the impact of Covid-19.

During this challenging period, approximately 1,800 local clubs obtained critical funding, with organizations like the Leeds Powerchair Football Club and the Peterborough-based Special Olympics Swimming Club emerging as beneficiaries.

In collaboration with esteemed UK charity, Sported, Flutter UKI will be facilitating the Cash4Clubs programme. Starting October 18, clubs and charitable entities are invited to submit their grant applications. Of the submissions, an awards panel will earmark one hundred proposals for financial backing, particularly focusing on clubs located in deprived regions and those targeting underrepresented communities.

Last month, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer emphasized the Government’s ambition to amplify physical activity levels. The Department for Culture, Media & Sport aspires to have an additional 2.5 million adults and 1 million children recognized as active participants in England by the year 2030.

Though sports engagement has shown recovery post-pandemic, the segment of inactive population members has witnessed a surge. Charitable bodies have voiced concerns regarding increasing barriers in underprivileged zones, pointing to the limited variety of accessible sports and escalating participation costs.

For comprehensive details on the Cash4Clubs initiative, interested parties can visit www.cash4clubs.com. The application window remains open until December 2023.

Ian Brown, Flutter UKI chief executive, said: “We want to help small sporting clubs to play an even bigger role in their communities so I’m delighted that Cash4Clubs is back.

“Research shows that for every £1 invested in sports, an average of £6 is returned in social value. We are therefore absolutely convinced this programme can make a real difference in the areas that need it most.”

Tom Burstow, deputy CEO of Sported, said: “We see people who are increasingly at risk of being unable to access the benefits of sport because of the growing financial challenges faced by grassroots groups. We will ensure that support reaches those most in need and benefits our local communities.”

Stan Belinski, managing director of Trafford Handball Club, who received £2,200 during the pandemic, said: “The money we received helped so much and enabled us to keep delivering what I believe is a fantastic sport to young people.

“I’d urge clubs facing into the uncertain economic climate to take part in this initiative. Getting involved in a club such as ours only helps people feel part of a brilliant community and gets them active too.”