Community Group of the Year nomination – Port Vale Foundation’s Community Advisory Group

Community Group of the Year nomination – Port Vale Foundation’s Community Advisory Group

Port Vale Foundation’s Community Advisory Group includes members of the local South Asian community from the vicinity of the club’s stadium.

Around 17% of the population from within a 2km radius of Vale Park are from the South Asian community but before the group was formed fewer than 2% were engaged in activity with the club and its foundation.

Over the last 18 months these statistics have changed considerably thanks to the support of this group.

This includes the input of a bi-monthly forum which provides insight, feedback and shared decision-making.

The group has been integral to the successful delivery of several events at the club, including more than 200 people attending a community Iftar and more than 300 people attending an Eid event.

The group has been vital in breaking down barriers, shaping activities to be culturally appropriate and ensuring the project reflects community priorities.

New activity sessions including ladies-only netball and swimming and health promotion with Port Vale have been set up, all while creating a safe and welcoming space.

Port Vale Foundation’s Community Advisory Group has been nominated in the Community Group of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Will Turner, Director of Community and CSR at Port Vale FC.

He said: “Historically this community has not engaged with the football club, but via this group there has been huge change – even now we are seeing many people from the local community attending games.

“They have helped to increase attendance at matches, improve health and feeling the sense of belonging at Port Vale for a community that was not before. This is what Stoke-on-Trent is all about. This group are true community heroes.”