The Football Association have announced the national launch of a new brand platform, the England Football Family, which aims to recognise, reward and celebrate grassroots football volunteers, supported by the Essex County FA.

The England Football Family launched at the Grassroots Football Awards, a ceremony celebrating grassroots volunteers from around the country which took place at Wembley Stadium connected by EE ahead of the recent FA Community Shield. The new, vibrant brand identity and voice will raise the profile of volunteering across the country to retain, recruit and reward grassroots volunteers from all communities, all year round.

Volunteers are the heart and soul of grassroots football, with around 860,000 people supporting and growing the game they love. Through the England Football Family, The FA are highlighting the importance of these individuals aiming to connect the volunteer workforce.

Alongside this, as members of the England Football Family, volunteers will gain access to development opportunities for a wide range of roles across the game, supporting them to thrive and grow. Volunteers will also have access to rewards like ticket offers, exclusive England Football partner offers and priceless experiences for themselves or their club or league.

Lana Gillard, Essex County FA Football Development Officer, commented: “The England Football Family is a fantastic platform to help celebrate and recognise the outstanding contribution of grassroots volunteers who dedicate themselves to ensuring football flourishes. I would encourage on- and off-field volunteers in our county to sign-up.”

James Kendall, The FA’s Director of Football Development, said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of grassroots football, who dedicate their time to ensure that England Football is a safe and enjoyable environment for people to flourish. We see and hear the value of our volunteer network every single day, which is why I’m delighted to announce the launch of the England Football Family.”

“We’ll be continuing to invest in our valued volunteer community as we recognise the passion, talent and dedication from every volunteer, in every club, through every league. This new brand platform enables us to bring together and empower volunteers, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to make lasting impact in their community. The best part is that anyone can get involved in grassroots football and become part of the England Football Family.”

From coaches and referees, to groundspeople and club secretaries, there are volunteering opportunities for all. To find out more information on how you can get involved with, and become part of, the England Football Family, please follow this link.