Northampton Town have been shortlisted for the European Football for Development Network's (EFDN) More than Football Award 2022.
The Cobblers, alongside FC Twente, Newcastle United, and Athletic Club de Bilbao made the final four for their project developed by the Northampton Town Community Trust to support older fans who may be at risk of loneliness or isolation brought about by COVID-19 and government lockdowns.
The project has supported 1210 people aged 50+ to reduce feeling of loneliness and improve their mental health and well-being.
The impact it has been made is wide reaching, the case studies of Audrey and Michael outline the impact they have made where the project has reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation, helped develop new friendships and improve people’s mental health and wellbeing.
"We are fiercely proud of our impact in the local community and nominations such as this show just what an impact that work has," said Chairman Kelvin Thomas.
"Having made some calls to supporters as part of this project myself, I know just what an impact we have made. Congratulations to Phill and all the staff at the Community Trust, this is truly special recognition for a truly special project and we are so, so proud."
The winner receives not only recognition for having implemented the most innovative and impactful Community and Social Responsibility programme in European football, but also wins a complete branded Mini-Pitch System modular sports solution which will be developed in partnership between the winning organisation, EFDN, and sponsor Musco Lighting.
After the More than Football Action Weeks this spring initially, a longlist of 10 clubs was announced with also Juventus FC, VFL Wolfsburg, SV Werder Bremen, Fundación Alcoraz of SD Huesca, Feyenoord Rotterdam and Falkirk FC Foundation also in the running.
The four shortlisted Clubs have been invited to present their project during the 18th Conference in Budapest. Attendees of the event will vote for their favourite project and the winner will be announced during the More than Football Award Gala Dinner on 15th November.