Launched in October 2018, The Twinning Project aims to bring together professional football clubs and prisons across the UK to use football as a catalyst for change.
The project aims to provide real opportunities to better prepare prisoners for release, find employment and reduce re-offending.
It will be delivered by the club’s foundation, City in the Community, in conjunction with other football bodies and the Prison Service, to support the Twinning Project in reaching their objectives.
David Dein MBE, founder of the Twinning Project, commented: “Since its launch, the Twinning Project has seen huge interest and enthusiasm from across the UK football family and Prison Service.
“We have also had interest from international clubs and prisons, as well as other sporting organisations, who wish to replicate what we are doing.
“It is testament to the vision and purpose of the Twinning Project that such a large group of football clubs have agreed to participate in trying to tackle a difficult problem in our society.
“We are in active talks with many other clubs and look forward to welcoming them to the Twinning Project as we roll out as widely as possible across football and the Prison Service.
“Among the first 32 clubs, a number of their Community Departments are already doing great work with their local prisons while others will be starting for the first time.
“Together as part of the Twinning Project, we will build on this momentum, bring structure and help to use football as a force for good that will deliver real change for people and communities across the UK.”
Mike Green, Head of City in the Community, added;
“City in the Community has a long history of delivering programmes in this area which focus on preventative measures by providing young people with a positive focus and support network.
“We’re delighted to be able to build on this work by partnering with the Twinning Project, to engage with even more people, support their rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.”
