A community football tournament designed for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
Published:Haircuts4Homeless joined forces with Manchester FA to support Beyond The Pitch, a community football tournament designed for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
Held at Stockport Sports Village, the free seven-a-side tournament welcomed more than 120 participants from shelters, charities, support services and local communities. Alongside the football, Haircuts4Homeless volunteers provided 22 free haircuts, offering an opportunity for conversation, confidence building and connection throughout the day.
Founder Stewart Roberts MBE travelled to Manchester with volunteers from local Haircuts4Homeless projects, joining Northern Projects Lead Jacki Hall and a team of volunteer hairdressers and barbers to support the event.
“Events like Beyond The Pitch are a reminder that football’s real power lies in its ability to bring people together. It creates friendships, builds confidence and gives people a sense of belonging, regardless of people’s circumstances”
– Roberts.
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“There was an incredible feeling of camaraderie throughout the day. Our volunteer hairdressers and barbers were proud to provide free haircuts, helping participants feel refreshed and more confident. Thank you to Manchester FA for inviting us to be part of such an inspiring event, and to our volunteers for giving their time and skills to support others,”
– Roberts.
The inaugural tournament was organised by Manchester FA to create an inclusive environment where people experiencing homelessness could take part in sport, meet others and access support in a welcoming setting. Teams represented a range of charities, shelters and community organisations, while a women’s team also took part. Transport was provided to help participants attend the event.
For Haircuts4Homeless, the partnership reflects the charity’s wider mission of improving confidence and wellbeing through free haircuts delivered by volunteer hairdressers and barbers across the UK.
Roberts added: “Something as simple as playing football, sharing a conversation or having a haircut can help someone feel connected and valued. That’s something worth celebrating.”
If you’d like to volunteer or support Haircuts4Homeless, visit Haircuts4Homeless.
Or if you’re feeling inspired by this news, learn how Jefe’s Barbers in Manchester city centre was offering £5 cuts to support men’s mental health; Barber Combines Smart Tech with Community Impact.
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