Alongside Howdens, England Football have launched their third ‘Game Changer’ application window for clubs to apply to improve their kitchen facilities, though time is running out to submit an application before Friday 31st January.

Essex clubs can follow in the footsteps of the likes of Rochford Town FC, whose kitchen area has been refurbished. The scheme will see the kitchen company aim to fund £3m worth of kitchens over three years for England Football Accredited grassroots clubs.

Howdens will work with England Football to support and fund the kitchens. Together, they’ll help to connect eligible clubs with local tradespeople, for the fit, via the 800 Howdens depots across the country. The programme has already provided better kitchen facilities to help clubs make their matchday experience more enjoyable, and to increase revenue opportunities.

Tom Eade, Treasurer at Rochford Town, was thrilled with his club’s grant, reacting: “Although the application form may look daunting, with the support of the Essex County FA, it became a very straight forward process from start to finish.”

“I would recommend that any clubs looking to refresh their kitchens, or who are starting to sell food at their clubhouse, applies for the Howdens Game Changer Programme. Howdens Southend were really helpful and understanding throughout the design process, making things simple to follow and allowing us to amend the proposed design multiple times to suit the club’s needs.”

“The previous kitchen area was wasted space used for storage, so, not only does this improve and modernise the facilities on offer, it will help to generate additional matchday revenue which can be reinvested back into club. This will further subsidise playing fees or purchase much-needed kit and equipment for our teams.”

Carrie Barfoot, Essex County FA Facilities & Investment Officer, is delighted to witness this facility investment, commenting: “The Howdens Game Changer Programme is a great opportunity for clubs to improve their kitchen facilities and increase their secondary spend on-site, to raise vital funds for their club. We can help support clubs with the application process.”

“Those who’ve been through the first phases of the Game Changer Kitchen Programme have been highly-complimentary of Howdens and the service they’ve received. The new kitchens we are seeing in Essex through this programme are fantastic!”

Find out if your grassroots club is eligible by reading the guidance below, which is also where you can apply on behalf of your club or view the product ranges. The application window will close on Friday 31st January 2025.