Notts County Foundation, in partnership with Footprints and Epic Partners, have celebrated the successful launch of the new We Belong programme.
The exciting launch of the We Belong programme took place at The Nest, an entertainment venue by Notts County FC. This marked the beginning of a ground-breaking initiative designed to empower and include children and young people with disabilities in physical activities.
Hosted by Notts County Foundation in partnership with Epic Partners and Footprints, the event was a true celebration of community, inclusion, and the transformative power of sport.
The launch brought together local families and community members to witness first-hand how the We Belong programme is set to impact lives. With a variety of accessible sports activities on offer—ranging from Boccia to Football and Archery—attendees were invited to try their hand at the sessions that will soon be available on a regular basis. These activities are designed to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for children and young people with disabilities, helping to break down barriers and encourage participation in sport.
Joining in on the big launch were Notts County FC’s Lucas Ness and Lewis Macari, who took part in some of the activities and connected with guests.
Not only was the launch event a day also featured key speeches from Vicky Spargo, Deputy Sport and Inclusion Manager at Notts County Foundation; Stephen Frew, Business and Charity Manager at Footprints; and Pete Bewley, CEO of Epic Partners. Their speeches highlighted the collective mission to enhance access to sport, amplify the voices of underrepresented groups, and create spaces where everyone feels like they truly belong. Those attending also had a chance to find out more about each partner, including the incredible work of the Notts County Disabled Supporters Association.
“We’re delighted to be one of the organisations involved in the launch event and new programme for the brand new ‘We Belong’ sessions, in partnership with fellow Nottingham charities Epic Partners and Notts County Foundation. These new sessions, which are entirely free and after school, are a fantastic opportunity for children and young people to feel empowered and included in multi-sport inclusive activities.
We know there aren’t enough after school options for children who live with disabilities, and we’re so pleased that after careful planning and collaboration, these sessions will be launching next month. One of our trained team will be co leading the sessions at Portland Leisure Centre, along with team members from the other charities involved, and will include inclusive activities such as Boccia. It’s fantastic to work and collaborate with organisations who share a similar ambition and mission and to further develop the services we provide for children and families.” – Stephen Frew, Footprints Business and Charity Manager
The We Belong programme is funded by the Premier League Fans Fund, which is committed to supporting fan-focused and fan-led initiatives at football clubs across all levels. The fund’s mission to strengthen connections between clubs, their fans, and local communities aligns seamlessly with the objectives of We Belong—to foster inclusion and create safe, accessible spaces for disabled children and young people to engage in physical activities.
”The launch was a great showcase of things to come in the We Belong project. We are very excited to work on providing more inclusive opportunities for everyone, alongside Epic and Footprints”. – Vicky Spargo, Deputy Sport and Inclusion Manager
We Belong will continue to offer weekly sessions, which will take place at Notts County’s Community Hub, The Portland Centre, every Thursday at 4:30 PM. Participants will have the chance to connect with others in their community, learn new skills, and experience the joy of physical activity in a supportive, inclusive environment.
This is more than just a sports initiative—it’s a movement to build a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has a sense of belonging. Together with our partners Footprints and Epic Partners, we are committed to improving access, amplifying voices, and creating a safer, more inclusive space for everyone to thrive.
For more information on the sessions and how to get involved, visit HERE
