Foundation offers student living grants to support ex-players at university

The Players Foundation is launching a new Student Living Expense Grant in September, aimed at supporting former professional footballers who are making the move into full-time university education.

The grant will help alleviate the financial burden of basic living costs, including rent, utilities and food, so that beneficiaries can fully engage in their studies and prepare for successful post-football careers.

The introduction of the new grant follows the success of last year’s Educational Resources Fund, provided as part of the charity’s Game Changing Support initiative, which demonstrated a strong demand for targeted educational support. 

As an independent charity, The Players Foundation offers help to current and former professional footballers who find themselves in need. In response to direct feedback from our beneficiaries, the Foundation is expanding educational support to provide real time assistance, ensuring increased impact and helping our community to thrive.

Since January 2024, the Foundation has distributed a total of £400,000 in charitable support via a wide range of grants as part of the Game Changing Support programme, including Family Support, Winter Fuel, Cost of Living and Educational Resources.

Brendon Batson OBE, Chairman of The Players Foundation, said: 

‘The new Student Living Expense Grant reinforces our commitment to supporting players beyond the game. I know how important it is for players to prepare for a second career and this fund is designed to offer support to those planning to attend a full-time accredited university course.’

‘If this is something that interests and inspires you, please be aware that we will be accepting applications from September 1st until the end of October.’

• Please keep an eye out on our website for more information on how to apply