Football Trade Directory

Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Win Project of the Season at EFL Awards

Blackburn Rovers have been recognised for one of the most impactful and innovative projects in the EFL: Dads FC.

Created in response to a complete absence of male-specific bereavement support locally, the programme provides a safe, stigma-free space for fathers who have lost a baby or child.

Weekly sessions at the Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre follow a deliberately informal structure—­arrive, brew, football, talk if you want to—allowing participants to access support without pressure or judgement.

Delivered in partnership with Maggie’s Stillbirth Legacy and Friends of Serenity, the programme also ensures clear referral pathways to specialist clinical support where required.

The impact has been profound:

  • 83% of participants report significant improvements in mental health
  • 91% say their sense of isolation has reduced
  • 100% report increased confidence and self-esteem

Described by participants as a “lifeline”, Dads FC has created a lasting support network, with many fathers maintaining connections beyond sessions through peer groups, social activities and shared fundraising.

In an area where provision simply did not exist, Blackburn Rovers have created a model that is both powerful and deeply needed.

Gary Robinson, Chief Executive Officer at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, said: "The EFL is full of incredible projects up and down the country in every division, so for us to be highlighted for this award for our Dads FC project is nothing short of humbling. To be chosen when there's so many good projects out there supporting so many people. I get goosebumps thinking about it."

Gary Robinson will be taking part in a Q&A at our upcoming Football & Rugby Business Networking Event at Ewood Park on Thursday 23rd April, he will be speaking about the success of Dads FC as well as all of their other initiatives. The event is free to attend as a delegate, for more information and to book your place visit https://­www.­foot­ball­tra­dedi­rec­tory.­com/­blackburn-26.

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