A Year of #AnyoneCan

As we approach the end of 2025, we’ve been reflecting on what a year it’s been at Wembley Stadium Foundation.

From launching our new strategy to opening doors for thousands of young people across the country, this year has been about building momentum, and turning ambition into action.

£555,500 Invested

So far in Year 1 of our strategy, more than half a million pounds has been invested in grants and programmes that are widening access, removing barriers, and helping communities thrive.

Here’s a look at what that’s made possible.

A New Strategy. Anyone Can.

This year, we proudly launched our new strategy, a refreshed brand and our Theory of Change for the Foundation, marking an important milestone in the Wembley Stadium Foundation journey.

Rooted in the belief that Anyone Can, we set out our ambitions to use the power of Wembley Stadium to increase participation amongst young people facing barriers and build a sense of belonging; whether that’s through sport, creativity, leadership or community.

Connecting More Communities to Wembley: Our Community Box

This Autumn, more than 30 young people experienced the magic of Wembley for the first time at five inspirational match day visits hosted in our Community Box.

Working alongside eight community partners (including Kiln Theatre, Brent Schools FA, Track Academy and Sport at the Heart) we welcomed young people who may never otherwise have had the chance to step inside the stadium.

For many, it was unforgettable.

“This is the best night of my life!”

Milly, Track Academy

“The best thing about tonight was watching my role models in action – my Arsenal brothers Eze and Saka!”

Rayan, Sport at the Heart

Moments like these remind us that access matters, and that a spark of inspiration can change how young people see what’s possible for them.

Grassroots Football Kit Giveaway: Confidence You Can Wear

Our Grassroots Football Kit Giveaway has reached communities in every county across the country.

Nearly 3,000 kits have been provided to more than 250 grassroots youth teams, helping remove practical barriers to participation, and giving young players a sense of pride and belonging.

The impact goes beyond the pitch.

“It’s a major honour to have Wembley Foundation on our shirts… the players feel more belief and confidence when they wear the kit.”

Ashley Smith, Wessington Warriors

“The squeals of enjoyment were unbelievable. Parents said it felt like Christmas morning.”

Yvonne Baxter, Whitley Bay FC Juniors

Watch out for our impact video launching in January 2026, sharing the stories of two teams and the difference the kit has made to them.

Breaking Down Barriers through our Targeted Grants

Our Targeted Grant partners have made an incredible impact this year. Across sport, movement and the arts, they have been opening doors for young people, helping them take part, grow in confidence and feel they belong.

Bloomsbury Football Foundation continues to expand access to football for girls and young women across London, creating welcoming spaces that encourage first-time participation, and support confidence both on and off the pitch.

At Kiln Theatre, newly arrived young people are being supported to engage with high-quality creative opportunities. Through workshops led by professional drama and filmmaking practitioners, young people across Brent and neighbouring boroughs are developing their self-expression, confidence and connections with others.

England Amputee Football Association has strengthened opportunities for young amputees across England to play and connect. Their bi-monthly weekend camps have brought participants and families together, including a once-in-a-lifetime experience to attend an international camp in Romania and meet young amputees from around the world

Through the FA Leadership Academy young leaders are being empowered to develop community football projects that break down barriers to access for thousands of participants, referees, coaches and players nationwide. With the help of our grants, these young leaders are promoting inclusion and helping to shape the future of the game in their communities.

We’re proud to support this work transforming young lives, and we look forward to celebrating even more impact in 2026.

 

Launching The Love Where You Live Fund With Brent Council

This year, in partnership with Brent Council, we’ve launched the Love Where You Live Fund to support grassroots projects fostering a sense of belonging in their local communities.

So far, the fund has awarded £100,000 to more than 30 organisations and individuals across Brent, with a further round of funding opening in the new year.

These projects are empowering residents and organisations to come together to respond to local needs and develop stronger communities. Many focus on bringing communities together, improving health and wellbeing, and creating positive opportunities for children and young people.

Here’s to 2026!

As we head into a new year, we’re excited to build on what’s already been achieved, launching new partnerships and continuing to learn how we can best support organisations to increase participation and belonging.