ABOUT US
At AFC Wimbledon Foundation, we believe football has the power to change lives.
our vision
Our Club. Our Community.
our mission
To bring our club and community together for a healthier, stronger, and more equitable future.
our ambition
To become London’s leading community club.
Why Our Work Matters
While our part of Southwest London is rich in community spirit, it is also shaped by significant inequalities that affect people’s health, wellbeing, and opportunities.
In Merton, there are stark differences in outcomes depending on where you live:
A gap in life expectancy of 7.7 years for men and 5 years for women between the most and least deprived communities
Rising health challenges linked to an ageing population, including dementia, frailty, and loneliness
1 in 3 children in Year 6 classified as overweight or obese - rising to over 43% in parts of East Merton
Over 50% of children not meeting recommended physical activity levels
Increasing levels of food poverty affecting families
In Wandsworth, deprivation also presents real challenges:
38% of residents live within the 50% most deprived areas nationally
97% of residents are affected by poor living environment conditions
Areas such as Roehampton and Latchmere face some of the highest levels of deprivation
Increased barriers to housing, higher crime levels, and lower life expectancy in the most disadvantaged communities
WE take action against inequality, improve lives locally, and support people of all ages to learn, grow, and achieve - using sport and education as powerful tools for lasting change.
our programmes
At AFC Wimbledon Foundation, we run simple, inclusive programmes to help people stay active, feel healthier, and build brighter futures.
SportS Participation
Fun, inclusive sessions to help people play, improve, and enjoy sport.
Player Development Centres - Weekly advanced coaching to build skills and confidence
Holiday Courses -Football camps during school holidays
Football For All - Saturday sessions for ages 4–14
Women and Girls Football - Opportunities for women and girls of all ages and abilities
Health & Wellbeing
Activities to help people stay active, healthy, and connected.
Active Ageing – Social sessions for over-65s
Dons Fit – Fitness sessions for adults
Walking Football – Slower-paced football for all abilities
Vets Breakfast – A space for veterans to meet and chat
Education & Employment
Support to help young people learn, grow, and move into work or education.
Schools Programme –-Sport and learning in local schools in Merton and Wandsworth
Education Football Programme - Study and play football post-16
Mentoring Programme - Support with confidence and life skills
Social Inclusion
Helping everyone feel welcome and supported in their community.
Premier League Kicks – Free football sessions for young people
EDI Initiatives – Making sport accessible for all
HAF Programme – Free holiday activities with food and sport
our golden thread
Everything we do is guided by one principle:
to improve the lives of everyone in our community - with a clear focus on those facing the greatest need, disadvantage, and poorest health outcomes.
How We Make a Difference
Through inclusive programmes, targeted support, and strong partnerships, we:
Tackle health inequalities and improve physical and mental wellbeing
Create opportunities for children and young people to thrive
Support older adults to stay active, connected, and independent
Provide pathways into education, employment, and volunteering
Use the power of football to bring people together and strengthen communities
your support transforms lives
Your support helps us change lives. Every pound you give brings hope to children growing up in difficult circumstances and to adults facing disadvantage and isolation across South London. It means a safe space after school, someone to talk to, a coach who believes in them, and the chance to be part of something positive. You’re not just funding a programme - you’re helping someone feel seen, valued, and capable of more. With your help, we can break down barriers and open up brighter futures. Thank you for standing with us.
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