We’re proud to welcome The Aston Villa Foundation, as the latest employer partner in the Movement to Work network, joining our mission to break down barriers and create brighter futures for young people across the UK.
As the official charity of one of English football’s most historic clubs, The Aston Villa Foundation delivers impactful community work that reaches far beyond the pitch. With deep roots in Birmingham, the Foundation has a strong track record of driving positive social change and this partnership marks an exciting next step in that mission.
The Foundation works across the immediate areas surrounding Villa Park and the wider Birmingham population, offering a holistic range of opportunities to support local people in the ways they need it most. Over the last 30 years, Aston Villa’s community work has continued to evolve, responding to the needs of local residents, community members, and fans. These long-standing efforts have laid the foundations for the club’s enduring and meaningful presence in the community today.
As part of this exciting collaboration, the Foundation has joined YouthPath – our targeted initiative in the West Midlands, delivered in partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority – pledging to support young people who are furthest from the labour market.
Together, we’ll be working to create meaningful work placements and employability opportunities for young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), helping them build confidence, gain vital experience, and realise their potential.
Aston Villa will support Movement to Work’s mission by offering opportunities that:
- Build workplace skills and experience
- Raise aspirations and unlock potential
- Strengthen local communities through opportunity
With thousands of supporters, volunteers, and young people engaged through its community programmes each year, Aston Villa is uniquely placed to make a lasting difference, particularly for those who face the greatest challenges in entering the workforce.
Our CEO, Sareena Bains, said:
“We’re proud to have Aston Villa Foundation join YouthPath, a vital initiative helping young people furthest from the labour market in the West Midlands. Their commitment to supporting young people through real-world opportunities is inspiring, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact this partnership will have on the local community!”
Ross Alexander, Aston Villa Foundation Manager, added:
“At the Aston Villa Foundation, we’re committed to using the power of football as a force for good, and that means creating real opportunities for young people in our community. Partnering with Movement to Work and joining the YouthPath initiative enables us to expand our impact, offering meaningful experiences that help build confidence, develop skills, and open doors to employment. We’re proud to stand alongside a network that shares our belief in every young person’s potential.”
A huge thank you to Paul Hughes, Ross Alexander and everyone at The Aston Villa Foundation for helping to make this partnership happen. We’re excited for what lies ahead and look forward to seeing the difference this partnership will make in the months and years to come.
Let’s keep levelling the playing field and give every young person the chance to thrive. Want to get involved or learn more about our employer network? Get in touch with our team today here!
