From Changing Lives FC to Simmply United: Bringing Communities Together Through Football
Football has always been about more than what happens on the pitch. It can create friendships, build confidence and bring people together regardless of language, nationality or background.
Before Simmply United, Changing Lives FC used the power of football to bring refugees, asylum seekers and migrants together, providing a positive environment where players could stay active, connect with others and feel part of a community.
The project became an important part of our journey and helped shape the inclusive community work Simmply Active continues today.
More Than a Football Team
Changing Lives FC was made up of players from different countries and cultures, many of whom had experienced displacement and significant challenges before arriving in the UK.
With numerous languages spoken across the squad, football provided something everyone could share.
Regular training and competitive matches gave players an opportunity to exercise, socialise and develop their football skills while building friendships and a sense of belonging.
The team progressed from playing in the Harlow and District League to competing in the Essex Alliance League, demonstrating the talent, commitment and potential within the squad.
Creating Connection Through Football
For refugees and asylum seekers adjusting to life in a new country, opportunities to meet people and become involved in the local community can be incredibly valuable.
Football created that opportunity.
On the pitch, players worked towards the same goal, developing teamwork, communication, confidence and positive relationships along the way.
Reflecting on his early experiences with the team, Simmply Active Founder David Simmons said:
“When I met the team, it was fantastic. They are technically brilliant – they are gifted players – and the only thing they lacked was the knowledge of the game.”
The programme demonstrated how community sport can help reduce isolation and create meaningful connections between people from different backgrounds.
Building Confidence and Belonging
The impact of Changing Lives FC went beyond football.
Having somewhere to train, compete and spend time with others provided players with routine, positive experiences and an opportunity to become part of a team.
It reflected a belief that continues throughout Simmply Active today: sport can be a powerful way to create connection, opportunity and belonging.
From Changing Lives FC to Simmply United
Although Changing Lives FC is no longer operating, its legacy continues through Simmply United.
Simmply United builds on our commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers through sport and wellbeing, creating opportunities for people to stay active, build confidence, form friendships and connect with their communities.
Changing Lives FC was an important chapter in our journey. The name may have changed, but the purpose behind the work continues.
Continuing the Journey
From our early community football projects to the programmes we deliver today, our aim remains simple: to use sport and positive opportunities to help people feel active, connected and supported.
Through Simmply United and our wider community programmes, we will continue creating welcoming spaces where people from different backgrounds can come together and feel part of something.
