Business Details
31 Years
experience
Combating Racism Through Football in Sheffield
Football Unites Racism Divides (FURD) has been a pioneering force in combating racial discrimination through football since its establishment in 1995. Our organisation leverages the universal appeal of football to foster social inclusion, challenge prejudice, and build bridges between diverse communities across Sheffield, the UK, and internationally. With a community-focused model, we deliver grassroots initiatives that educate young people about racism while creating safe spaces for dialogue and collaboration. Our partnerships with national networks like Kick It Out and FARE amplify our impact, while local collaborations with Sheffield City Council enable us to manage the U-Mix Centre, a vital hub for youth engagement.Founded by Howard Holmes, our work is driven by the belief that football transcends cultural and social barriers, offering a platform for meaningful societal change. Over three decades, we have adapted to evolving challenges, addressing emerging issues such as religious intolerance and refugee integration. Our team combines dedicated volunteers, professional expertise, and funding from charitable trusts to sustain impactful programmes. We actively seek new partnerships to expand our reach and welcome collaborative efforts to tackle racism in all its forms. Transparency, community leadership, and evidence-based approaches underpin our operations, ensuring accountability to stakeholders and beneficiaries alike.
Services
Anti-Racism Programmes
Youth Football Sessions
Community Cohesion Projects
Educational Workshops
International Collaborations
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 30 years of experience tackling racism through football since 1995
- Community-focused approach with proven grassroots impact
- Partnerships with national anti-racism networks including Kick It Out
- Operate Sheffield's U-Mix Centre for youth engagement
- Adapt to evolving challenges like religious intolerance and refugee integration
What people say
Lasting community impact
Effective anti-racism approach
Strong partnerships
Inclusive programmes
Services
Anti-Racism Programmes
Our anti-racism programmes use football as a tool to challenge discrimination and promote equality. Through workshops, community events, and advocacy campaigns, we address racial prejudice in sports and wider society. These initiatives combine education, dialogue, and practical action to create lasting change.
Youth Football Sessions
We organise inclusive football sessions for young people aged 11-15, focusing on skill development and social integration. These sessions provide safe spaces for diverse groups to interact while learning about teamwork and mutual respect. Participants benefit from structured coaching and mentorship opportunities.
Community Cohesion Projects
Our community cohesion projects bring together people from different backgrounds through football-based activities. By facilitating cross-cultural interactions and collaborative projects, we strengthen social bonds and reduce community tensions. These initiatives specifically target areas affected by racial or religious divisions.
Educational Workshops
We deliver educational workshops in schools and community settings about racism, discrimination, and cultural understanding. Using football as a teaching tool, these sessions combine historical context with contemporary issues to foster empathy and challenge stereotypes among young people.
International Collaborations
Through international partnerships with organisations like FARE, we share best practices and develop global anti-racism strategies. Our international work includes cross-border projects, knowledge exchange programmes, and participation in European-wide initiatives to combat discrimination in football.
People
Howard Holmes
Founder and Chair of Trustees
Howard Holmes founded FURD in 1995 after witnessing racial tensions at Sheffield United matches. As Chair, he leads strategic direction while maintaining grassroots connections. With extensive experience in community development, he has built partnerships with local authorities and international anti-racism networks.
Questions
What is FURD's primary mission?
We use football to combat racism and promote social inclusion through community projects, educational programmes, and international collaborations.
How can I participate in FURD's activities?
Join our public football sessions at the U-Mix Centre or contact us for volunteering opportunities, partnerships, or event participation.
What age groups do you work with?
We focus on youth aged 11-15 through football sessions and educational workshops, while our community projects engage all age groups.
How is FURD funded?
We receive funding from charitable trusts, grant-making bodies, and partnerships with local authorities and football organisations.
Do you operate outside Sheffield?
While based in Sheffield, we work nationally with anti-racism networks and internationally through collaborations like the FARE network.
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