Just Play

A flexible community football programme, delivered through partnership and designed to create lasting local benefits across England

Bring more women into football with Just Play

Just Play gives people an easy, welcoming way to enjoy football. Flexible, informal sessions require no long-term commitment, so women of all abilities, backgrounds and experience levels can get active, meet others and take part in a relaxed, social setting.

Whether participants are returning after a break or trying football for the first time, Just Play removes traditional barriers and offers a positive route into the game—without the pressure of joining a team or committing to a full season.

Partnership at the heart of delivery

The FA and Sported are working together to extend Just Play’s reach and increase its impact, with a particular focus on creating more opportunities for women. The partnership brings together The FA’s football expertise and Sported’s trusted grassroots network, helping community groups and clubs become confident Just Play delivery providers. Organisations can access funding opportunities alongside practical guidance and organisational support, making it easier to establish sessions that respond to local needs.

Benefits for community groups

Turn an idea into delivery: use funding opportunities, practical guidance and organisational support to establish local sessions.
Build on community trust: offer a recognised football programme through an organisation that already understands local people and their needs.
Reach more women: create safe, welcoming opportunities for people who may face barriers to taking part in traditional sport.
Strengthen wellbeing and connection: help participants become more active, meet others and feel part of their community.
Create sustainable local impact: combine national football expertise with grassroots knowledge to make recreational football more accessible across England.

Bring Just Play to your community

If your organisation already supports women in your community—or wants to start—becoming a Just Play delivery provider can help you turn local insight into accessible football opportunities. Work with The FA and Sported to reach more people, strengthen connections and create lasting community impact.

Contact our Partnerships team to find out more:

grants@sported.org.uk