UEFA has confirmed its social responsibility partners for the 2017-2021 cycle, and will continue to work with CAFE to promote improved access for disabled people across the game.

Following a comprehensive review of its social responsibility strategy, UEFA has reaffirmed its commitment to issues such as access, child protection, inclusion, reconciliation, sustainable event management and tackling discrimination.

Peter Gilliéron, the Chairman of UEFA’s Fair Play and Social Responsibility Committee, spoke of a "really well-rounded portfolio" that "gives us the perfect platform for European football to act in a socially responsible manner".

"We’re really looking forward to working with our new and existing partners, and playing a more active role in issues like child protection, and dealing with the refugee crisis", added Gilliéron.

CAFE Managing Director Joanna Deagle said, "We are delighted to continue our relationship with UEFA during this cycle. UEFA has consistently demonstrated a real commitment to a game that is accessible and welcoming for all, and we look forward to ensuring further progress in this area over the next four years".

A number of other NGOs and organisations have also confirmed their continued cooperation with UEFA for this four year cycle, including Fare, Homeless World Cup and the International Platform for Sport And Development.

Furthermore, three new partnerships have been established with Terre des hommes (child protection), the European Healthy Stadia Network (health) and the South Pole Group (Co2 carbon).

UEFA’s 55 member associations will also be invited to submit projects in the field of football for refugees and migrants, with bids open for six annual grants over the four year period.

A full list of UEFA's social responsibility portfolio partners for 2017-21 can be found below:

• Football for all abilities: International Blind Sports Association (IBSA); CP Football (cerebral palsy); Special Olympics Europe Eurasia (SOEE); European Deaf Sports Organisation (EDSO); European Powerchair Football Association (EPFA); European Amputee Football Federation (EAFF)
• Access: Centre for Access to Football in Europe (CAFE)
• Inclusion: Homeless World Cup
• Racism and discrimination: Fare network
• Peace and reconciliation: Cross Cultures (CCPA)
• Solidarity: International Platform for Sport And Development (www.sportanddev.org)
• Team of the Year Award: International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
• Child protection: Terre des hommes (Tdh)
• Health: European Healthy Stadia Network
• Co2 carbon: South Pole Group

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A version of this article is also available in Russian.

Published 21/01/2018