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The Game Changer Programme

At Howdens, we believe in being worthwhile for all, which is why we launched The Game Changer Programme to support grassroots football with improved clubhouse facilities that are at the heart of the community. Over three years, we will provide kitchens for 450 clubs across the UK, so lower-league teams have a hub where players and local people can congregate, nurture young talent, and keep the spirit of football alive. Championed by football legends Jill Scott, Chris Kamara, and Julie Fleeting, these new club kitchens present valuable funding opportunities for small teams by giving them the facilities to serve food and drink. This makes them more attractive for external hire and less reliant on external funding to survive.

Transforming kitchens for clubs and communities

“The off-pitch facilities are vital, because clubhouses are the hub of the community. They’re the place for teas and coffees for the taxi of mum and dad, where the frozen wet feet of the army of volunteers dry off, and where the post-match discussion starts. If kitchens are the heart of our homes, then kitchens should be the heart of grassroots football too.” - Andrew Livingston, CEO of Howdens

Please note that applications for the Game Changer programme are currently closed.

What is the Game Changer Programme?

Working with UK football associations (FA), Game Changer will see new kitchens fitted into 450 grassroots clubs, providing social space for future stars and fans.

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What is the Game Changer Programme?

Working alongside the FA, the Scottish FA, and the Irish Football Foundation, we want to transform hundreds of lower league and grassroots clubhouses through the Game Changer Programme, by providing new kitchen facilities that will become the beating heart of their local communities.

Like the kitchen is at the heart of the home, these new kitchens will become a lifeline for many underfunded football teams, allowing parents, players, and volunteers to host events, food and refreshments that provide valuable funding to keep clubs afloat.

Over three years, our goal is to upgrade 450 clubhouse kitchens across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, to keep the spirit of football alive.
Why is it important?

With costs rising, keeping the lights on at grassroots clubs has never been harder. Despite this, as a social hub, they still play a vital part in our communities.

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Why is it important?

As well as providing a pathway for the football stars of tomorrow, grassroots. and lower-league football clubs are crucial to their local community. It offers adults and children a chance to socialise and participate in an activity with significant health benefits, where teamwork and cooperation are essential.

Funding for grassroots football is far from robust. Most of these teams are run by volunteers and survive on goodwill and passion, so these clubhouse kitchens will present valuable funding opportunities to meet day-to-day costs, now and in the future.

Finding ways for these clubs to keep money coming in will help them prosper.

Jill Scott relaxing in the clubhouse kitchen

Jill Scott, former midfielder for England's Womens Team

"The kitchen is the hub of the club, bringing together players, supporters, and the wider community. That’s why I’m so pleased to be involved with the Game Changer programme, where grassroots clubs all over the country are set to benefit."

Is my club eligible?

The Game Changer Programme is open to all non-professional clubs across the UK with accreditation with their national association.

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Is my club eligible?

Conditions for entry will differ depending on the country your club is in.

England – England Football Accredited clubs who are 2 or 3 star Accredited, or are 1 star Accredited and have a minimum of 8 teams with the ambition to become a 2 star Accredited club. In addition the club must own their facilities freehold or have an uninterruptible lease for the next 5 years
Scotland – Any Scottish FA Quality Mark accredited grassroots club who own their facilities freehold or have an uninterruptible lease for the next 5 years
Wales – Any grassroots club who own their facilities freehold or have an uninterruptible lease for the next 5 years
Northern Ireland – Any grassroots club who own their facilities freehold or have an uninterruptible lease for the next 5 years
ROI/France – The Game Changer Programme is currently not available in ROI or France

A club must own their facilities freehold to apply or have an uninterruptable lease for the next five years or longer. If a club has an uninterruptable lease, the landlord’s consent should be granted to carry out the works

If you do not own the facilities freehold or have an uninterruptable lease for the next five years or longer, then we would accept the freeholder as a joint applicant
How can I apply?

Application is easy and varies depending on which nation your club is in. You also need certain information, such as photos and proof of insurance, before starting.

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How can I apply?

If you wish to be a part of the next 150 clubs upgraded via the Game Changer Programme, you will need to submit an application by 31st January 2024. Successful applicants will be informed during the month of April, although an assessment team may contact your club to clarify information beforehand.

Whilst the application process aims to be as easy as possible, you will need some supporting documentation before you start.

What is required?
• A sketch of the clubhouse space detailing the room size including width, depth, and height. Please highlight the location of existing plumbing, waste, water, electric, and gas connections where possible. Along with the position of doors, radiators, windows, food hatches, and any other obstructions.
• Photos of each existing wall (x4), ceiling, floor, and entrance to the room
• Photos of any existing kitchen, plumbing, electrical, and gas services along with information on where the new kitchen will be fitted
• Photos and details of any existing appliances and their location in relation to the kitchen space
• Evidence of tenure in the form of a signed lease or freehold title document
• The landlord’s consent to the works
• Building and contents insurance

For more information, please refer to the application forms for more information.

Chris Kamara smiling with a cup of tea in a Howdens kitchen

Chris Kamara, former footballer and presenter

"Many clubhouses still need help to improve much-needed facilities. So, the new kitchens will make a real difference to grassroots clubs and bringing local communities together."

Getting it fitted

With a trade professional

It is likely you have a trade pro within your community, such as a fan or volunteer, that already has a trade account with us. Their knowledge and expertise make them best placed to install your new kitchen, saving you time and money.

An image of a tradesman at a Howdens depot, conversing with a member of staff

With a trade account

As a club, you can also apply for a Howdens trade account, either online or at a local depot. You will still need a fitter to install your products to a high standard and our depots can help connect you with a tradesperson in your area.

James Kendall, Director of Football Development at The FA

"By providing new kitchens at these clubs, we hope to help them grow and thrive and make a positive impact on the lives of their players, supporters and the wider community.”