Football Foundation Launch The Stephen Lawrence Scholarship

The Football Foundation has announced a new funding and professional development initiative through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, in partnership with the University of Greenwich.

Honouring Stephen Lawrence’s legacy and his dual passion for football and architecture, the scholarship is designed to support Black students from low socio-economic backgrounds, as well as those who are estranged or care-experienced. It will provide financial assistance and opportunities to undertake the Architecture Part 2 March course over a two-year period, beginning this September.

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, commented:
“Stephen Lawrence both loved football and dreamed of becoming an architect — someone who could shape the places where people live, gather, and thrive.

“This initiative is the perfect legacy, as we work to plan, design and construct facilities that target and support groups and communities who have faced barriers in terms of participation. This includes lower socio-economic groups and culturally and ethnically diverse communities.

“These facilities provide not only a great place to play but also a safe space for communities to come together, where people can meet and build friendships.

“Along with the funding, the recipient will have the opportunity to work with our team at the Football Foundation, attend all-team events, gain a real understanding of the grassroots football facility landscape. We’re excited to support the recipient in developing experience and skills within the field and build networks.”

Baroness Doreen Lawrence OBE added:
“I would like to express my appreciation for the Football Foundation’s support; it means a great deal to see this important scholarship in Stephen’s name at the University of Greenwich – an institution of special personal significance.

“As both an alumna and a former member of staff, I have witnessed first-hand the university’s ability to shape lives and open doors.

“The establishment of this scholarship in Stephen’s name marks a meaningful continuation of his legacy, providing opportunities for the next generation and reinforcing the vital role that education and sport can play in transforming communities.

“Through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, supported by the Football Foundation, Stephen’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower future generations, ensuring that his vision for equality, opportunity and justice lives on.”

The initiative was officially announced at Charlton Athletic FC’s Training Ground – also home to the Charlton Athletic Community Trust – which has benefited from £350,000 of Football Foundation funding to help under-represented communities in and around Charlton become more active.

Charlton’s Vice-Chairman, Paul Elliott CBE MBE, said:
“This partnership between the University of Greenwich and the Football Foundation is a powerful example of what can be achieved when shared values and vision come together.

“It has been a personal honour to help bring these organisations together in Stephen Lawrence’s name – uniting his passion for football with our collective commitment to creating inspiring spaces and life-changing opportunities for young people.

“Through the Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, we not only honour his legacy, but actively build on it, empowering a new generation.”