Playing for change with The Big Goal 2025

Focus Group is proud to continue its commitment, for a second consecutive year, as a founding member of The Big Goal. Powered by the Street Soccer Foundation, The Big Goal brings together UK companies to sponsor vulnerable young people affected by homelessness, hardship and unemployment through its nationally acclaimed programme.

The Big Goal sees ICT businesses across the country sponsor a Street Soccer Academy in their region, with employees also taking part in a national football tournament to demonstrate how the game is being used to inspire positive change and life-changing opportunities for those attending the academies.

Now in year two of its sponsorship, Focus Group has partnered with Wimbledon FC and – through the ten-week programme – will have the opportunity to engage directly with young people at the academy, offering career advice, expertise and practical opportunities to support their journey into education, training, or employment. Sessions combine mentoring, mindset coaching, employability workshops, CV writing and football training to help participants build confidence and move towards a brighter future.

Glen Cleary, Business Development Manager at Focus Group, has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the programme. "The Big Goal isn't just a campaign, it's literally a game changer," he explains. "Seeing the energy and confidence it sparks in the people involved through the Street Soccer Academy is nothing short of amazing. Proof that football really can change lives; I am honoured to be part of something special that brings so much fun, drive, and positivity to communities across the country."

And as Keith Mabbutt, Founder & CEO of the Street Soccer Foundation, explains: "Through The Big Goal campaign, businesses don't just sponsor an Academy group of young people – they become a catalyst for transformation. By supporting the Street Soccer Foundation, companies help vulnerable young people overcome homelessness and hardship and build confidence, resilience, and employability."

The bigger picture

Currently, The Big Goal has 34 corporate sponsoring members but needs to reach 100 company sponsors by the end of the year to achieve its ambitious goals. Reaching this target would enable the Street Soccer Foundation to support at least 500 vulnerable young people experiencing homelessness throughout 2026.

The Big Goal offers various ways for businesses to get involved, with flexible options designed to accommodate different company sizes and commitments. Whether through supporting young people locally or contributing to the national programme, each approach creates direct impact in communities across the UK.

To learn more about joining The Big Goal campaign, visit www.thebiggoal.co.uk.

Published 19th September 2025