CEO's MESSAGE
As we celebrate 30 years of Football Unites, Racism Divides Educational Trust (FURD ED), we are proud to reflect on a journey that has used sport and community action to bridge divides and change lives.
What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a recognised force for cohesion; locally, nationally, and internationally. This journey belongs to the people and communities who have shaped us. Whether you have grown with us, challenged us, or simply found a place to be active, your voice drives our sense of responsibility. It pushes us to listen more and do better.
As we step into this new era we are relaunching FURD’s digital platform. This is more than just a website; it is a commitment to evolving alongside our community. As we prepare to launch our new organisational strategy, this digital growth will help us amplify our voice, reach more people, and deepen our impact.
Thank you for being part of our story for the last 30 years. The next chapter starts here.
Simon & Mehrun
about FURD
Football Unites, Racism Divides (FURD) is a Sheffield-based youth and social inclusion charity with one clear goal to bring people together and break down barriers.
Born in 1995 out of a love for football and a stand against racism, FURD has spent 30 years inspiring inclusion, cohesion, and positive change locally, nationally, and internationally.
We use the power of sport, education, and community to tackle racism, build understanding, and create spaces where everyone feels they belong.
Working with a wide range of partners, we deliver projects and campaigns that promote equality, inclusion, and unity — on and off the pitch.
The challenges may change, but our mission stays the same: bringing people together, challenging prejudice, and building stronger cohesive communities.
— Team FURD
News and updates
FURD stands against the racism faced by Kyle Walker
FURD confirms its unwavering support for our proud Ambassador Kyle..
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FURD annual review 2025
As we reach our 30th anniversary, we've published our 2025..
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‘Music Unites’ project to be extended
We are delighted to announce that Football Unites, Racism Divides..
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30 years of FURD
FURD marked its 30th anniversary with a Football Tournament and Health..
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Her story. Our history. Their legacy
Ruth Johnson’s journey is a powerful reminder that history lives..
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Professional contract for FURD referral Lamine Sidibe
FURD is delighted that Lamine Sidibe has signed a professional..
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Community cohesion
In recent weeks, we have seen how quickly division and fear can spread within our communities. Across the UK, tensions have been high – inflamed by misinformation and stories deliberately developed to pit us against each other. At FURD we believe that now, more than ever, we must stand firm in our commitment to our communities and reject attempts to drive us apart.
When misinformation and hate spreads – whether online or whispered in the street – it erodes trust and fuel fear. This is why we should all be vigilant. We must challenge rumours designed to divide us and look to the truth of how our communities function: people helping each other, working together, relying on each other, every day.
Moments of understanding are not rare; they are the backbone of our towns and cities.
FURD’s mission has always been as a bridge between people, developing understanding. We know from decades of experience that when communities unite, they are stronger, safer, and more resilient. In times of uncertainty, cohesion is not a luxury – it is essential.
Let’s work together to understand each other and work and live in harmony.
mission and vision
Mission:
To strengthen communities by empowering individuals with the skills, opportunities, and agency to lead positive social change.
Vision:
A cohesive and inclusive society built on equality, understanding, and shared belonging.
Engage and Include
We create safe, welcoming spaces like U-Mix centre and community programmes where young people and families from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds can meet, belong, and connect.
Strengthen Communities
By fostering inclusion, dialogue, and understanding across different backgrounds, we reduce conflict and build stronger, more cohesive communities where everyone feels they belong.
Empower and Support Change
We provide personalised guidance and opportunities that help people take responsibility, make positive life choices, and build pathways toward education, employment, and wellbeing.
Inspire and Build Confidence
Through group and one-to-one activities, we help individuals develop new skills, confidence, and positive relationships with role models, strengthening their sense of self and community.
Media gallery
Uniting Our streets and communities conference
Community Days
Sheffield women’s football history
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