As Manchester City’s Official Automotive Partner, Nissan, the first global partner of City Football Group in 2014, became CITC’s Official Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner in December 2023.
The agreement sees Nissan support its One City Disability project for two years, as well helping to fund the creation of a new project to increase support for Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community.
The new project - to be named in the coming weeks by participants - is for 16-25-year-olds who identify within the LGBTQ+ community, enabling them to enjoy exercise and connect a safe environment.
The weekly sessions, which include coaches who identify within the community, include footballing activities alongside workshops and youth voice opportunities.
Working with young people and local expert organisations, the charity’s initiative has been designed by the very people who will benefit from it.
Commenting on the launch, Head of Operations at City in the Community, Lisa McKay said: “We are delighted to formally announce this new initiative with global club partners Nissan, ahead of Manchester Pride, after months of extensive research and focus groups, with thanks to Nissan as our EDI partner.
“We know that city youth from the LGBTQ+ community in Manchester are facing barriers to football participation, with some sharing their own challenging experiences with us.
“The sessions aim to encourage football participation and create more opportunities for participants to increase their physical and mental wellbeing.
“City in the Community is passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces, and all are welcome, whether you are a member or ally of the LGBTQ_ community.”
GET INVOLVED IN OUR NEW LGBTQ+ PROGRAMME
The announcement expands on Nissan’s current support of City in the Community that began in 2021 and further builds on the global partnership that Nissan have had with City Football Group for over 10 years.
Since then, Nissan has been integral to the growth of the City in the Community’s One City Disability programme, including the support of Powerchair Football sessions by purchasing eight new chairs for young people to enjoy.
City in the Community and Nissan have also collaborated on successful campaigns and events since 2021 - including the Nissan Possibilities Project, which helps to create more opportunities for people from underrepresented communities, and City in the Community’s Blue Run fundraiser.
To celebrate the launch of the new partnership, City in the Community released a heart-warming video featuring Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, showcasing a surprise meeting with One City Disability participant, and super fan, Lucas.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCmancity.
For more information about CITC, visit www.mancity.com/CITC.
