The Southend United Football in the Community Scheme was first launched in 1991. Many of the original activities are still being delivered, including after schools coaching, holiday soccer fun weeks and recreational activities for senior citizens.

In 2004 the Football In The Community Scheme became a Community and Educational Trust - a company limited by guarantee and registered as a charity. Our board of trustees include representatives from Education, the Police, Local Authority and the Local Voluntary Services.

As all good community organisations must do, Southend United Community and Educational Trust has responded to the changing needs of our local community, successfully adapting current work programmes and providing innovative new services.

Our Mission Statement

'To provide sporting, recreational and educational activities that will enhance both the personal and social development of all participants.'

Our Vision

'To work in partnership with communities, continuing to deliver an inclusive range of educational, sporting and social opportunities, improving the quality of life for individuals and neighbourhoods in South East Essex.'

Recognition

During 2006 the work of the Trust and football club in the community received local, regional and national recognition.

- Winners of the Regional Chamber of Commerce Award
- Winners of the Essex Countywide Business Award
- Finalist in the National Chamber of Commerce Awards
- Mentor UK Alcohol Misuse Prevention Awards - Getting on with the Blues voted as one of 10 best schemes in the UK
- Southend Evening Echo Community Award

Southend United Community and Educational Trust have 4 KEY AIMS:

Aim 1 - Be Healthy and Stay Safe

To educate children and young people on the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, keep safe from accidental injury and death, and safe from crime and anti-social behaviour. Programmes included Getting On With The Blues, No Messin! Rail Safety, Blues Bodycare.

Aim 2 - Education Through Football

To use the power of football as a support mechanism for learning strategies in developing educational aspirations and life skills. Programmes included GOALS!, Playing For Success On Tour, Coach and Medical Education.

Aim 3 - Enjoy and Achieve

For children and young people to enjoy recreation and to develop personal and social skills. Programmes included Mini Shrimp Pre-school Sessions, After School Sessions, Penalty Shoot-Outs, Saturday Team Scheme, Soccer Schools, FA Three Lions Holiday Course.

Aim 4 - Inclusion

To promote social inclusion, raise levels of positive experience for all in the community and to reduce levels of crime and disorder. Programmes included Senior Shrimpers, Star Football Partnership, Positive Futures, Estates Football, Disability / Special Needs.

To find out more about the Trust and their work visit their official website at: www.southendunited-cet.co.uk