Celebrating Community and Corporate Parenting with Grimsby Town Football Club

The move by the Club is part of work to celebrate its partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council and their role as corporate and community parents.

It’s a gesture that goes far beyond football - it’s about inclusion, opportunity, and togetherness.

Over the last two years, the club has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the community and to children and young people, and this weekend is no different.

Grimsby Town has long supported the Council’s work around corporate and community parenting. But what does that mean?

Simply put, corporate parenting is the shared responsibility of the Council, its partners, and the wider community to ensure children in care have the same opportunities, support, and love that any child deserves. It’s about being there for them through actions – not just words.

Towards the end of October, the Council will be hosting a series of events to celebrate Corporate and Community Parenting Fortnight; a time to raise awareness, share stories, and highlight the role everyone can play in supporting children and young people in care.

Whether it’s through ticket donations, awareness campaigns, or just by being a welcoming space, the club continues to show what it means to be a true community partner.

Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council said:

“The club continues to lead by example, showing what it means to stand with our children in care. Their generosity and community spirit are something we’re incredibly proud to be part of - the difference they are making to children and young people on and off the pitch does not go unnoticed.”

Polly Bancroft, CEO of Grimsby Town FC, said:

“We are proud to have been the first organisation in North East Lincolnshire to sign up for the Council’s foster friendly scheme in April 2024 and we have been committed to raising awareness of services ever since.

Along with the Foundation, we continue to work collaboratively on initiatives which enrich people’s lives within our community. I’m looking forward to seeing plenty of people in the Osmond Stand on Saturday who perhaps don’t usually get the chance to attend games - I hope everyone has a great experience.”

To find out more about becoming a Foster Carer with North East Lincolnshire Council visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/fostering