Matt Thacker
The Palace for Life Foundation has been nominated for the Community Project Award at the London Football Awards and it could not be more deserved.
Across South London, Palace for Life is changing lives every single day. Through football, community and opportunity, they are helping young people find their feet, their confidence and their next step. The foundation is breaking down barriers and opening doors to education, employment and hope.
At the heart of this work is the GAME ON project. The programme has supported 31 young people with Down’s Syndrome, helping them build confidence, independence, employability opportunities and life skills.
Every participant is guided and encouraged by the Palace for Life staff. These people are vital, they are there to listen, coach and help them build a pathway forward. For many, it is the first time someone other than family has truly invested in their future.
From CV support and work experience to career planning, GAME ON gives these young people the tools to move forward with clarity.
The project lays powerful foundations in mindset, communication, social skills and technical know-how. Equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive. Through hands-on experiences like cooking, podcasting, DJ workshops and community visits, participants build independence, grow in confidence and develop real-world skills that prepare them for life beyond the programme.
They are not defined by a label; they are defined by their talent, determination, personality and limitless potential.
One example during the project that captured their spirit perfectly was when the participants recorded a brand-new version of Crystal Palace’s iconic anthem, Glad All Over. Their voices can now be heard on platforms worldwide, a powerful reminder that, when given opportunity and belief, they don’t just take part – they shine.
Recently, myself and Stephen Brown from the BBC created a podcast with the group. We interviewed them and they interviewed us. The conversations were honest, funny and unforgettable. It was aired on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio. This project does more than support young people – it changes how they see themselves and opens doors.
The competition may be strong, but whether GAME ON wins or not, the impact of its work is undeniable. What truly matters is the life-changing differences being made every day. Transforming lives, unlocking potential and creating opportunities where none existed before – that is the real win.
The London Football Awards will take place on Thursday, 5th March.
