Howdens extends its award-winning community outreach programme

Trade kitchen supplier Howdens is set to extend its award-winning community outreach programme, Game Changer, for an additional year and has committed to supplying a further £1million worth of kitchens to grassroots football clubs.

The Howdens Game Changer Programme works with grassroots football clubs and clubs in the National League System and Women’s Football Pyramid to transform clubhouse kitchen facilities, helping them to become sustainable community hubs. Since its inception, through the programme Howdens has provided over 400 brand-new kitchens, worth over £3m, to local communities in partnership with England Football, with the Scottish FA and Irish FA Foundation also supporting the programme’s reach across the UK. 

Forbes McNaughton, group company secretary for Howdens, said: “We’re so proud to commit a further £1m worth of kitchens to support local teams and to transform even more club facilities, alongside our trade partners. We know that grassroots football clubs are central to local communities – the players, parents and volunteers, and they represent more than just places to play a match. When facilities are refurbished, the club becomes more accessible and has a greater chance of a sustainable future.”

The programme was recognised for its community contribution at the Football Business Awards 2025, winning ‘Best Football Community Scheme – Non-Premier League or Championship’.

Building on its commitment to grassroots football, Howdens will also sponsor The FA’s Grassroots Football Awards 2026, which this year take place on 16th August. The Grassroots Football Awards celebrate the volunteers, coaches, clubs, leagues and match officials who are the heart of grassroots football in England. The awards are nominated by members of the public and aim to recognise the dedication and passion of those making a lasting impact on their local communities and the game.