Charlton Athletic Community Trust Makes £49m Impact

 A new report has shown that across Charlton Athletic Community Trust’s (CACT) programmes in South East London and Kent, a social value of £49,609,000 has been generated.

The study has been independently verified by the University of Greenwich and shows that for every £1 the charity invests in a one-year period, £9.52 is created. 

 Peter Storrie, Charlton Athletic’s Chief Executive, said of the report: “We’re proud to have CACT as our charitable arm – as the charity of Charlton Athletic – delivering vital work across a wide geographical area. This report underlines the hugely significant social impact its programmes have across South East London and Kent. 

“While I’ve only been at Charlton a few months I’ve been aware of the excellent work the community trust does for many years. It’s incredible not only how long a period of time this community work at Charlton Athletic has taken place for but how its reach and impact continue to grow. The work and its impact is something our supporters contribute to and take a lot of pride in.”

An independent charity since 2003, CACT’s work and its impact has grown year on year, and it now works with over 25,000 participants annually. 

The charity has identified three core outcomes which underpin its work in the community: 

– Improved physical and mental health and wellbeing 

– Improved access to education and employment 

– Increased community and social cohesion 

CACT runs more than 65 programmes which help achieve these outcomes. 

Community work at Charlton Athletic began as football sessions back in 1992, and sport remains an important part of CACT’s work to this day, including new sessions to engage more female participants in football.  

The Football and Sports Development department has engaged over 5,000 participants, with all Premier League Primary Stars students reporting improved confidence and 94% reporting improved physical wellbeing.  

CACT’s Chief Executive, Jason Morgan MBE, said: “CACT understands the importance of its work and the importance of evidencing its impact. We are committed to using this information to shape and influence our future priorities and projects to ensure they meet our communities’ needs, and this will be captured in our new strategic plan which is due for publication in 2024. 

“The social value figure has increased by over £15m since we last measured it, and I’d like to pay tribute to all staff who have contributed to our continued growth.

“I’d also like to thank all partners and donors, from local authorities and educational establishments to corporate partners and individuals, who help make what we do possible.”

Click here to read the full impact report.