SOUTHAMPTON Solent University have been working with homeless people from across the city in a bid to help disadvantaged groups get involved in the game.

As part of a work-based community project, set up in partnership with Hampshire Football Association (FA) and Chapter 1, a charity that specialises in providing accommodation and support for vulnerable people, students designed opportunities for disadvantaged groups to get involved in the game.

The activities included students running weekly football sessions and culminated with a football tournament.

Five teams competed in the tournament, including more than 20 residents from local homeless shelters. Held at Goals Southampton, it was run in a league format, ending with a final and a third and fourth play-off game.

Dr Stefan Lawrence, Senior Lecturer in Football Studies, said: “The students’ implementation of a 'development through football’ approach within a real-world context extends their commitment to social justice beyond the classroom.”

Kim Wilcox from Hampshire FA commented: “Through this project, with the support and guidance of Chapter 1, the students have engaged with a group of participants that otherwise would have slipped through the net.

"They have approached the project with tenacity and determination, providing informal but regular playing opportunities resulting in an extremely well organised competitive offer."