As part of Sheffield United Community Foundation’s commitment to creating opportunities for all, the charity runs inclusive football sessions at Sheffield’s English Institute of Sport. Through strong partnerships with Cerebral Palsy Sport, Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield City Trust, The Children’s Hospital Charity, and Yorkshire Sport Foundation—and with funding from the Premier League Charitable Fund—the weekly Cerebral Palsy & Frame Football sessions offer children a chance to enjoy football, build friendships, and develop valuable skills.

One young participant who has truly thrived in these sessions is 9-year-old Louie Wood from Barnsley.

Louie was born prematurely at just 28 weeks, weighing only 1lb 15oz. Against the odds, he survived—and has fought like a warrior ever since. He lives with several complex needs, the most significant being spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Despite a challenging prognosis, Louie continues to defy expectations, inspiring those around him with his strength and determination.

Brad Fox, Disability Officer at Sheffield United Community Foundation, said: “Sessions like this are incredibly beneficial for children like Louie—not just physically, but emotionally and socially too. Louie has truly embraced this opportunity. His physical activity levels have soared, his communication has improved significantly, and his strength and wellbeing have developed enormously. Being in an inclusive environment with his peers has really helped him thrive.”

As part of Sheffield United Community Foundation’s commitment to creating opportunities for all, the charity runs inclusive football sessions at Sheffield’s English Institute of Sport. Through strong partnerships with Cerebral Palsy Sport, Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield City Trust, The Children’s Hospital Charity, and Yorkshire Sport Foundation—and with funding from the Premier League Charitable Fund—the weekly Cerebral Palsy & Frame Football sessions offer children a chance to enjoy football, build friendships, and develop valuable skills.

One young participant who has truly thrived in these sessions is 9-year-old Louie Wood from Barnsley.

Louie was born prematurely at just 28 weeks, weighing only 1lb 15oz. Against the odds, he survived—and has fought like a warrior ever since. He lives with several complex needs, the most significant being spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Despite a challenging prognosis, Louie continues to defy expectations, inspiring those around him with his strength and determination.

Brad Fox, Disability Officer at Sheffield United Community Foundation, said: “Sessions like this are incredibly beneficial for children like Louie—not just physically, but emotionally and socially too. Louie has truly embraced this opportunity. His physical activity levels have soared, his communication has improved significantly, and his strength and wellbeing have developed enormously. Being in an inclusive environment with his peers has really helped him thrive.”