The headlines of the night belonged to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, who was a striker for the Booth Centre, demonstrating his commitment to the cause both off and on the pitch. The Mayor, who scored 2 goals and assisted in a third said on the night; “You’ve probably seen I’ve been a bit low profile recently… so I thought I needed something to lift up the attention a bit. Because I’m still trying to get to the highest level… I’m hoping to attract the attention of David Moyes tonight! But on a serious note, it is amazing to see the incredible work the Booth Centre does to tackle homelessness in Manchester. The team are brilliant, and we’re here to show them our total appreciation.” 

The Booth Centre FC squad is comprised of players with experience of homelessness, poverty, and the impact of the immigration system, and, after weeks of rigorous training under Head Coach Jason Broughton, BCFC displayed incredible teamwork and skill, overpowering the Rest of the World side in a high-scoring, entertaining 12-goal thriller. 

Len, team Captain of the BCFC, said, “It’s been amazing, everyone working together, as a team, y’know? It’s been a once in a lifetime thing. The Booth Centre has changed so much for me, and it means a lot to represent them.” 

Homelessness across Greater Manchester continuous to be a growing concern, fuelled by systemic poverty and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The Booth Centre operates as a vital community hub, supporting over 100 people every single day, recently expanding opening hours to Saturdays and Thursdays to meet the growing demand.  

Kate McSweeney, Deputy CEO at the Booth Centre, expressed her gratitude following the final whistle: 

“I am so incredibly proud of the team tonight. They fought for every single ball, and you could see exactly how much this meant to each person on the pitch. This match gives our community a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Every penny raised from this fixture goes directly into the Centre, so that we can continue to provide vital person-centred, trauma-responsive support to those who need it most.” 

The Booth Centre extends sincere thanks to all players, volunteers, match officials, coordinators at Broadhurst Park, with particular thanks to Nigel Brookes (Operations Manager) and the generous spectators whose donations will directly fund frontline homelessness services in Manchester. 

Donations: If you missed the match but still want to support the Booth Centre donations can be made directly via our official website at www.boothcentre.org.uk/donate

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Over the last few years, the nature of homelessness in Manchester has changed. More people who are experiencing homelessness in Greater Manchester are working, in education, or volunteering during the Booth Centre’s traditional opening hours. As many of our community are not able to access the Centre during our usual opening hours, we have chosen to stay open slightly later on Thursdays and open for a half-day, on Saturdays

People that come to the Centre have expressed to us that weekends can also be particularly difficult for people who are sleeping rough, with fewer services available and limited places to go, many people face long weekends without any meaningful human connection. Extending our opening hours also allows us to respond directly to this gap.

Visitors to the Centre on Saturdays can expect the same welcoming environment that runs throughout the week, a space which offers somewhere safe to be and to feel part of the community. Having an additional day open each week creates more opportunities for people to build connections with our community and team.

This change has been made possible through the dedication of our staff and volunteers, as well as the ongoing support from the wider community. Their commitment allows us to reach more people and provide consistent, reliable space across the week.

As demand for homelessness services continues to increase, extending our opening hours is one step towards meeting the growing need in Greater Manchester. We are focused on creating a community where people feel safe, supported, and able to take positive steps at their own pace.”

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Over the past six months, participants have been working on everything from confidence and routine to skills development and future planning. Some begun volunteering or training, while others have focused on improving their physical health, wellbeing, or reconnecting with friends, family, and community. Progress looks different for everyone, and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate progress with each Trailblazer in the way that they need.

Reaching the six-month mark is an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved so far. It’s also a reminder that this work is on-going, as more and more Trailblazers are signing up to the programme.

Trailblazers is an important part of how the Booth Centre supports people experiencing homelessness, focusing on long-term change as well as immediate needs. For those interested in supporting programmes that help people move beyond homelessness, the continued success of Trailblazers shows what can happen when the right support is in place at the right time.

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Throughout December, the Centre has been filled with warmth, conversation, and the kind of festive moments that many people take for granted. The delicious food, the sound of laughter during group activities, and the comfort of a familiar face at the door all play a part in making the space feel safe and welcoming.

For many who visit us, the festive season can bring added pressure. Shorter days, colder weather, and the absence of stable housing or close support networks makes this time of year particularly challenging. That’s why our doors remain open, offering not only practical support but also a place where people are treated with dignity and respect, throughout the festive period, including Christmas Day.

Our meals have once again been a central part of the celebrations. This year we were thrilled to host the Deluxe Elegant Ladies who cooked Christmas Jollof for us; a taste of home for so many of our community, and a new festive treat for us all. Having our friends in the kitchen during Christmas week was incredibly meaningful for us all.

Alongside this, a range of festive activities have brought people together across the month, from making Christmas cookies, to listening to our carol singers, these moments can help build connections and reduce the sense of isolation for our community.

Each year, we welcome people on Christmas Day, this year seeing over 80 people for a full plate with all the trimmings, a gift from our generous supporters, and a fun, festive day, without any pressure. With thanks to all of our supporters, without whom we wouldn’t be able to celebrate the season as a thriving community.

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