Disability football is growing across England – but it only happens because of volunteers. The Football Association is actively looking for people to get involved, and the opportunities are more varied and accessible than you might think.
“The FA approached Disability Horizons because they know our community. Our readers are disabled people, their families, carers, friends, and colleagues – people who already understand that disabled people are just ordinary people who want the same things everyone else does, including the chance to play, contribute, and belong. That’s exactly the kind of volunteer disability football needs, and exactly why I’m proud to support this campaign. If you’ve ever wanted to give something back, this is a brilliant place to start.”
Duncan Edwards, Editor, Disability Horizons
There are roles to suit all backgrounds and abilities, both on and off the pitch. You don’t need football knowledge or coaching experience. The FA is specifically looking for people to fill roles in:
- Coaching
- Refereeing
- Welfare
- Administration
- Leadership
Disabled people are actively encouraged to volunteer. The FA is working to grow disabled representation across all of these roles.
Why Disability Football Needs You
Without volunteers, disability football sessions simply don’t happen. Many disabled people face real barriers to getting involved in sport – and volunteers are central to breaking those down. Sessions focus on participation, enjoyment, and community rather than competition, so the environment tends to be welcoming and rewarding for everyone involved.
As Jude Geoghegan – born with a spinal condition and winner of Disability Coach of the Year at The FA’s Grassroots Football Awards – shows, disability is no barrier to making a huge difference in this space.
How to Get Involved
Getting started is straightforward. The FA provides free training, you just need to show up and be willing to learn.
Register your interest with The FA here
For a full guide to volunteering in disability football, including what to expect on your first day and how to find sessions near you, read our full article on Disability Horizons:
How to Volunteer for Disability Football in the UK
This article was produced in partnership with The FA as part of their disability football volunteering campaign.