Published: 2024-03-09 by, News Team in the Sports & Fitness news category

Newcastle United Achieves 'Football Club of Sanctuary' Status for Inclusive Efforts

Newcastle United Football Club has made history by becoming the inaugural Premier League team to be awarded the esteemed 'Football Club of Sanctuary' status. This prestigious recognition reflects the club's unwavering commitment and dedication to fostering inclusivity and providing support to individuals in the city who are seeking refuge.

The journey towards achieving this remarkable accolade involved a rigorous external panel approval process, which evaluated the club's exceptional impact on the lives of individuals seeking sanctuary within the community. Working hand in hand with the Newcastle United Foundation, the club's official charity arm, Newcastle United demonstrated its outstanding dedication through a diverse range of tailor-made projects.

The newly accredited status shines a spotlight on Newcastle United's exemplary initiatives that have significantly contributed to the well-being and integration of refugees and asylum seekers. Among the highlighted endeavors are collaborative efforts with various organizations across the city and wider region, including the Newcastle West End Foodbank and the 'A Helping Hand at Christmas' campaign. These initiatives aim to provide essential support to some of the region's most vulnerable individuals, particularly during the winter season.

Furthermore, Newcastle United has intensified its commitment to promoting awareness and understanding of refugee and asylum seeker issues among its staff through specialized training programs. This initiative underscores the club's dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and combating discrimination in all its forms.

Darren Eales, CEO of Newcastle United, expressed immense pride in the club's attainment of the 'Football Club of Sanctuary' status, emphasizing the region's reputation for its warm welcome. He reaffirmed the club's commitment to projecting this welcoming message to everyone who visits or resides in the North East.

The Newcastle United Foundation plays a pivotal role in providing vital support to families seeking sanctuary and young refugees who have recently arrived in the region. Through a range of free and inclusive programs, the foundation aims to enhance mental and physical well-being, as well as provide valuable employability and education support.

One standout program is the Foundation's Welcome Through Football initiative, which offers a unique platform for integration and inclusion, leveraging the universal passion for football to foster engagement and community cohesion.

In addition to its commitment to inclusivity, Newcastle United Foundation's NUCASTLE program has been recognized as a certified Safe Reporting Centre by Northumbria Police. This designation provides a safe and neutral environment for individuals to report hate crimes or incidents, further enhancing community safety and well-being.

Steve Beharall, CEO of Newcastle United Foundation, emphasized the organization's unwavering dedication to inspiring, connecting, and collaborating to enhance people's lives. He reiterated the foundation's commitment to providing equal opportunities and a warm welcome to those seeking sanctuary in the city and wider region.

Newcastle United's attainment of 'Football Club of Sanctuary' status marks a significant milestone in the club's ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility. Through collaborative initiatives and dedicated programs, the club continues to uphold its commitment to supporting those in need and fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

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