Scottish Para-Football – the world's first-ever Para-Football Affiliated National Association - have been announced as recipients of the prestigious UEFA Foundation for Children award for 2023.
Each year, the UEFA Foundation for Children honours charitable organisations for their 'outstanding contributions to supporting vulnerable and marginalised children'.
The €1-million award has been shared equally among 23 organisations, including Scottish Para-Football.
Launched in 2018, Scottish Para-Football brings together multiple football disciplines under one national umbrella.
Endorsed and supported by the Scottish FA – Scottish Para-Football provides a voice for all those playing parallel versions of the game, to champion the achievements of Scottish para-footballers and to promote inclusivity and equality in order to grow the game.
As an Affiliated National Association (ANA), Scottish Para-Football is also represented on the Scottish FA's Non-Professional Game Board, which helps shape the national game.
As part of the nomination process, inspiring success stories were highlighted from across the various disciplines, such as the development of the Autism and Neurodiversity league. A world first when it was launched in 2021, the organisation now boasts 23 teams and more than 275 young players under the age of 16, who would previously have found mainstream football challenging.
Scottish FA President Mike Mulraney said: "It's great to see the outstanding work of Scottish Para-Football recognised by the UEFA Foundation for Children.
"We talk a lot about the everyday Power of Football on Scottish society and there is no better evidence of it than the work being done by dedicated people across the different disciplines.
"Put simply, they change lives. We are very proud of them and will continue to do what we can to ensure Scottish Para-Football continues to go from strength to strength, so more young people can enjoy the game we all love."
Ashley Reid, CEO of Scottish Para-Football, added: "We're thrilled to receive this award, which is both recognition of and testament to the progress of para-football across a multitude of disciplines in Scotland.
"Football is about so much more than what takes place on the football field - it brings communities and families together and, for many, provides a sense of purpose, belonging and national pride.
"This funding will be channelled specifically into exciting initiatives that nurture Scotland's social community of para-football, ensuring young people enjoy opportunities to thrive both off as well as on the pitch."
Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA president and chair of the UEFA Foundation’s board of trustees, said: "On behalf of UEFA, I would like to express my sincere admiration for our award winners, for their tireless efforts and dedication, which have made a significant impact in the lives of children.
"Through their selfless work, they have become a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless children, empowering them to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
“The impact of their work extends far beyond the immediate beneficiaries, as it has a ripple effect on families, communities, and society as a whole, laying the foundation for a brighter and more inclusive future.”