SUFFOLK FA are continuing the Youth Retention Fund for the 2024-25 season.

The fund was launched for the 2021-22 season to support families who are facing financial challenges caused by the pandemic, meaning young players are in danger of not being able to play for an affiliated team.  

The Youth Retention Fund will support the cost of young players’ club membership fees and other expenses in a bid to prevent children dropping out of football simply because of the cost of playing.

For 2024-25, clubs are able to access different levels of funding depending on the number of youth teams affiliated to the club, with each individual application having a maximum award of £150.

• Clubs with 1-29 youth teams – a maximum of £600 per club (max of £150 per each individual award)
• Clubs with 30-39 youth teams – a maximum of £750 per club (max of £150 per each individual award)
• Clubs with 40-49 youth teams – a maximum of £900 per club (max of £150 per each individual award)
• Clubs with 50+ youth teams – a maximum of £1050 per club (max of £150 per each individual award)

Funding is being provided from the Suffolk FA Benevolent Fund. For applications to be considered, the club whom an applicant represents will need to have made at least a £10 donation to the Suffolk FA Benevolent Fund for the 2024-25 season.

Applications can be made on behalf of families by club secretaries or agencies such as social services, GPs or schools, but must be supported by a club affiliated to Suffolk FA for the 2024-25 season.

Grant payments will be made directly to the child's club will go towards fees or in some circumstances additional costs such as kit, packed lunches or entry fees for tournaments.

Applicants will be asked to outline what the financial support will be used for, and the reasons behind the application. They will also be asked to evidence what other support will mean the young player continues throughout the season and beyond. Applications for those who received support during the 2023-24 season are welcomed.

To apply, please complete the below form honestly and in its entirety and return it to info@suffolkfa.com.

Once receipt of the form has been acknowledged, we will aim to provide an outcome to the application within 10 working days.

Any fraudulent applications to the fund will be reported.

The closing date for applications is March 31st 2025.