Non-league Football Clubs 2025-02-27

Opened the debate

It is a pleasure to be in the Chamber to discuss an issue that many of my constituents care deeply about: non-league football. In Redditch, clubs such as Redditch Borough FC and Sporting Club Inkberrow FC contribute significantly to the local community and economy. Redditch United alone generates over £2.5 million in direct economic value annually, nearly £200,000 in health benefits, and over £1 million in wellbeing value for its 60 staff members. The club's partnership with the Football Association has led to a study highlighting these figures. Additionally, it supports local businesses through ticket sales, concessions, and training sessions at Valley stadium. Despite this, non-league clubs face significant challenges including financial struggles, infrastructure maintenance issues, and difficulty attracting players post-promotion. Last year alone, ten per cent of teams in Redditch United’s league ceased operations, illustrating the precarious nature of these clubs. If Redditch United were to close, the economic and social impacts would be catastrophic. Local businesses like Reddit have shown support through sponsorship deals, but more is needed.

Government Response

The minister acknowledged the significant contribution non-league football makes to local communities, including economic benefits and social cohesion. They highlighted that the Football Foundation continues to support such clubs through funding for facilities and infrastructure. The Government recognises the importance of community interest companies in maintaining these organisations' financial stability. They announced a commitment to review transport routes serving non-league grounds and seek ways to enhance accessibility similar to premier league and championship teams. Additionally, the minister responded to specific challenges raised by MPs, emphasising the need for local partnerships between clubs and councils to address funding and strategic planning issues. The Government will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that non-league football remains a vibrant part of British society. English football is a global success story beginning with grassroots football. The sector contributed £53.6 billion to the UK economy in 2021, employing 878,000 people on full-time contracts. DCMS supports grassroots sport through Sport England’s annual investment of £250 million from lottery and Exchequer money. A £123 million multi-sport grassroots facilities programme has funded over 559 projects in the UK this year. The Government is committed to improving public transport access for sporting events, supporting local clubs’ growth. Concerns about governance should be raised with the FA or Sport England. Non-league football delivers economic and social benefits, fostering community initiatives and youth development schemes. An FA study showed that grassroots football has a £10 billion annual value in England, saving the NHS over £43 million annually through reduced GP visits. The Government aims to ensure equal access to football for girls in schools. As I have set out, football and sport make a hugely important economic contribution to our economy and our country. This is exactly why the Government support non-league and grassroots football, and I again thank my hon. Friend for securing this debate.