Flutter UKI Commits £400k to Support Community Sports Clubs

Flutter UKI, a prominent entity within the igaming sector and the conglomerate behind brands such as Paddy Power, Sky Betting & Gaming, Betfair, and tombola, has announced a significant contribution to its ‘Cash4Clubs’ initiative. This programme, dedicated to bolstering grassroots sports across the UK and Ireland, will distribute £400,000 among community clubs in dire need of financial support.

This year, 200 clubs participating in a diverse array of sports including badminton, skateboarding, American Football, wheelchair rugby, and surfing will each receive grants of £2,000. These funds are intended to aid in facility improvements, equipment purchases, coaching program support, and ensuring the operational sustainability of these vital community resources.

Flutter UKI has prioritized funding for clubs located in economically disadvantaged areas and those focusing on engaging under-represented communities. This initiative aligns with the UK Government’s ‘Get Active’ strategy, as announced by Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, aimed at increasing sport participation and access to physical activities.

Initially, Flutter UKI allocated £200,000 for the 2023-2024 ‘Cash4Clubs’ funding cycle but opted to double this amount after reviewing an overwhelming 1,282 applications. Notable recipients of this year’s funding include the Team Solent wheelchair rugby club, the Taibach Tigers Rounders Club in Wales, and the Northern Powerhouse Boxing Academy in Yorkshire, among others.

Since its inception in 2008, the ‘Cash4Clubs’ program has seen nearly £5 million invested into community sports by Flutter and its associated brands, highlighting the significant social value generated through sports investment.

Welcoming the initiative, Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew, said: “The Cash4Clubs fund will help to deliver on our ambition to get an additional 3.5 million adults and children physically active by 2030, and provide important support for community sport clubs. Staying active is vital for our health and wellbeing which is why the Government is investing over £400 million in grassroots facilities to make sure every community has access to the facilities they need.”

Flutter UKI CEO, Ian Brown, said: “Community clubs are the bedrock of sport in the UK and we are committed to doing everything we can to help small clubs make a real difference to people’s lives. I’m delighted we were able to double the size of this year’s Cash4Clubs fund to £400,000 after seeing a record number of applications come in. We are convinced Cash4Clubs will have a real impact in those areas that need it most.”

Hayley Williams, captain at the Taibach Tigers, said: “It’s fantastic that we’ve been awarded a Cash4Clubs grant. We’re delighted and excited to see how we can improve the team and attract new members to the sport.”

Josie McNamara, general manager of the Northern Powerhouse Boxing Academy, added: “As a club involved in community work, receiving grants that directly support essential roles like our Head Coach is vital. A big thank you to Cash4Clubs and Flutter UKI.”