Darwen Girls FC – Annual Impact Statement

Overview

Darwen Girls FC continues to grow as one of the most inclusive, safe, and empowering grassroots football environments in Lancashire. With 90–100 girls participating across our age groups, the club remains committed to providing high-quality football opportunities regardless of background, ability, or financial circumstances.

Our mission is simple: to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where girls can thrive on and off the pitch.

Key Impact Areas

Participation & Growth

· Supporting 90–100 girls across multiple age groups and pathways.

· Increasing demand for girls’ football, positioning the club as a central hub for local families.

· Disability and Wildcats pathways ensure football is accessible to every girl.

Commitment to Inclusion

· Free or supported places for girls who may struggle financially.

· All kits provided at no cost to families, fully funded through sponsorship and grants.

· Ensures every girl feels equal, included, and part of the club from day one.

Safeguarding & Wellbeing

· Girls consistently report feeling safe, supported, and valued.

· All coaches and volunteers follow strict safeguarding standards with regular training and DBS checks.

· Focus on emotional wellbeing, confidence-building, and positive role modelling

Leadership & Youth Voice

· A strong Junior Committee gives girls a real voice in club decisions.

· Members contribute to events, fundraising, club rules, and community projects.

· Builds confidence, communication skills, and leadership qualities.

Pathways Into Coaching

· Clear pathways for girls to become future coaches, referees, and leaders.

· Young players supported through mentoring and development opportunities.

· Creates a cycle of empowerment: girls inspired by female coaches become the next generation of coaches.

Community Partnerships

· Strong links with local schools, supporting PE programmes and promoting girls’ football.

· Active partnership with Darwen Youth Zone, providing additional safe spaces, activities, and youth support.

· Partnerships widen community impact beyond football

Community Impact

· Strengthening community cohesion through football, events, and volunteering.

· Collaboration with local organisations to promote girls’ sport and wellbeing.

· Inclusive culture ensures every girl feels part of something bigger than just a team.

Looking Ahead

Darwen Girls FC aims to:

· Expand participation opportunities across more age groups.

· Increase the number of young leaders and junior committee members.

· Continue offering free or subsidised places for families in need.

· Maintain the commitment to providing free kits through sponsorship.

· Strengthen coaching pathways for girls entering FA courses.

· Deepen partnerships with local schools and Darwen Youth Zone.

· Maintain high standards of safety, inclusion, and football development.

Conclusion

Darwen Girls FC is more than a football club — it is a safe space, a community, and a pathway for girls to grow into confident, capable young women. Our impact reflects our core values: inclusion, empowerment, opportunity, and belonging.