Funding for Scottish FA ‘Extra Time’ programme doubled

Support for the Scottish FA ‘Extra Time’ programme is set to increase which will bolster provision of after school and holiday club activity for children of primary school age across Scotland.

The partnership, which was launched with the Scottish Government last year, was designed to increase the availability of childcare services whilst encouraging children to engage in sport and physical activity.

By giving around 3,000 children each week access to sport and other activities outwith normal school hours, the funding will also help parents and carers to find employment and training opportunities.

The programme will now see investment of £4 million from the Scottish Government divided across the 31 participating football clubs and trusts across the nation, from as far north as Aberdeen FC Community Trust, to Queen of the South Community Trust near the border.

Scottish FA Chief Executive, Ian Maxwell: “We are delighted to announce this additional funding in conjunction with the Scottish Government to extend the ‘Extra Time’ programme.

“The benefits have been clear to see and it’s vital that we continue to offer support for families to allow children and young people to access as much physical activity as possible.

“As well as the thousands of children who will engage with the game, clubs are often the heartbeat of their local communities and it’s just as important that we offer more opportunities for parents and carers too.

“This programme is a great example of how impactful the power of football can be."

For more information on the Scottish FA Extra Time programme, contact clubservices@scottishfa.co.uk