Thanks to a new partnership between Hibernian Community Foundation and Down’s Syndrome Scotland, children with Down’s syndrome across Edinburgh will have the opportunity to enjoy weekly football sessions in a fun, inclusive environment
The initiative began last month, supported by funding from the Scottish FA Summer of Football programme, and will run through to March 2027, providing children aged 5-12 with the opportunity to develop football skills, build confidence and make new friends in a welcoming and supportive setting.
Delivered by HCF Football Development Manager Samantha Windram, the weekly sessions take place every Friday and form part of Hibernian Community Foundation’s growing Football Development programme.
Paul Greig, HCF Head of Football, highlighted the importance of the new initiative and its place within the Foundation’s wider commitment to making football accessible to all.
“At Hibernian Community Foundation, we believe football should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or ability. These sessions are about much more than developing football skills, they’re about creating opportunities for young people to build confidence, make friends and feel part of a team in a safe and supportive environment.
We’re delighted to be partnering with Down’s Syndrome Scotland on this programme. It aligns perfectly with our wider Football Development aims of removing barriers to participation and ensuring more children can experience the positive impact that football can have on their lives. We’re excited to see the sessions grow over the coming months and look forward to welcoming even more participants along.”
The first session took place last month at Bangholm Outdoor Centre, bringing together children and families for an enjoyable introduction to the programme. The new sessions further expand the Foundation’s Football Development provision and reinforce its commitment to making football accessible and available to all within the Edinburgh and Leith community.
Ashely Taylor, Fundraising Lead at Down’s Syndrome Scotland added: “We’re so excited about this partnership, which started today. We’re bring together individuals, our members with Down’s syndrome to play football in an inclusive environment.
For us, it’s a lot more than just football. Football’s amazing, but it also breaks down barriers and opens up doors for inclusivity.”
The new sessions are another important step in Hibernian Community Foundation’s commitment to making football accessible to everyone across Edinburgh and Leith.
Through the partnership with Down’s Syndrome Scotland and the support of the Scottish FA Summer of Football fund, children will have the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, make new friends and enjoy all the benefits of being part of a team.
With weekly sessions now underway, both organisations are looking forward to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every participant can thrive both on and off the pitch.
