A community-focused football club in Bootle, Merseyside, has been nominated for a major award recognising its work in providing inclusive sports opportunities for local residents. Bootle Bucks Inclusion FC received the nomination for the BBC Merseyside Make a Difference Awards on 7 May 2026.
The organisation was highlighted for its volunteer-led approach and its success in fostering confidence and social interaction for children and adults with disabilities and additional needs. Many of those who join the club often find it difficult to participate in mainstream sports settings.
Founded in April 2018 by five friends, the group has grown significantly from its initial 16 members to serve over 200 people aged between four and 41. The club operates as a Community Interest Company and is supported entirely by volunteers, with 81 people regularly giving their time to help at coaching sessions.
The club has become a notable presence in the sporting community, frequently competing against professional teams such as Liverpool, Everton, and Manchester United in various tournaments. Their work has been previously recognised with several honours, including the North West Football Award for Promoting Inclusion in 2018 and the LCFA Disability Club of the Year in 2019.
In addition to its weekly coaching, the club hosts the country’s largest inclusion football festival and has built partnerships with teams across the UK and Europe. Co-founder John Doran, who was recognised for his efforts with the Sefton Council Diversity and Inclusion Award in 2024, continues to help lead the organisation as it expands its reach.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
