Football without limits

Disabled people should have the opportunity to experience and enjoy football whatever their ability level, whether that be in mainstream, pan-disability or impairment-specific football. The important thing is that they have a choice. 

It’s fantastic to see participation levels are on an upwards trend, but we know there is more to do. Our plans for the next four years will see a further upscale to the roll-out of our recently launched, insight driven programmes such as Comets and Journey to Inclusion training, while we will create new initiatives where gaps exist. We are committed to supporting schools and grassroots football clubs to grow their Disability provision on and off the pitch to ensure that football’s doors are open to all. 

We will continue to utilise The FA Disability Cup to showcase the skills and extraordinary passion of players at the top of their game, while also being committed to develop the event further. We will strive to offer everyone involved the best experience possible, while raising awareness of participation opportunities, inspiring others to take their first step into football

We will create an inclusive and sustainable Talent Pathway, which ensures any and every young player can achieve their potential. The Pathway is open and flexible to accommodating players’ needs, while feeling comfortable asking players about themselves and how we can support them to train and perform optimally. 

As The FA, we have an opportunity as well as a significant responsibility to make a real difference for Disabled people. Through the ongoing development of a high-performance landscape on the Para Football programme, we want to support our players and coaches to be the very best they can be. We believe that this leads to world-beating performances that can inspire the next generation of ambitious Para footballers to play for England.

Over the last few years, there has been a real shift in momentum in England Para Football, especially from a performance point of view. The programme shows a genuine interest in players and teams, and we have a voice through the Player Rep Group. The biggest change for me is everyone being accepted as individuals, and there being an understanding of our lives outside of football.

Coaching plays a fundamental role across the Disability and Para game and we are committed to supporting coaches by providing a wide range of development opportunities that will allow all players to thrive. Similarly, we will provide enhanced support to coaches with an impairment and continue to drive our work to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Since launching our Football Your Way plan, we’ve seen Disability Football go from strength to strength. 

Over the last four years, we’ve elevated our output around England Para teams, using their stories to inspire the next generation of players, and we’ve continued to shine a light on the brilliant work throughout grassroots Disability Football, from The FA Disability Cup to Comets. 

Through our new ambitious strategy, we want to help take Disability Football to the next level, continuing our journey to inspire others and promoting opportunities for all to play the game. 

Aligned with our partners’ vision, Disability Football serves as a powerful platform for brands to enact meaningful change. Through collaborative efforts between The FA and our sponsors, we are driving forward safe and purpose-led initiatives. The potential for impactful change is immense, with successful programmes not only enriching the game but also touching the lives of thousands.