Reading Football Club has paid tribute to Reading FC Community Trust after a new English Football League report revealed the charity generated £20,989,440 in social value during the 2024/25 season, one of the strongest returns across the EFL.
The EFL’s annual community report found that club community organisations collectively reached more than 1.2 million people during the season, generating over £1.42 billion in social value. Reading FC Community Trust’s contribution of almost £21 million represents a return of £9.12 for every £1 invested in its work, with an average social value of £1,414 per participant.
An independent registered charity with its own governance and finances, Reading FC Community Trust works under the Club’s name to deliver programmes across Reading and Berkshire. Its work spans education, health and wellbeing, inclusion and community engagement, from Premier League Kicks sessions in some of the area’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods to disability sport, mentoring programmes and football opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.
Funded through a combination of grant income, corporate partnerships and charitable support, the Trust’s programmes are delivered by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers working across the region every week.
Joe Jacobson, Chief Executive of Reading Football Club, said: “We are incredibly proud of Reading FC Community Trust. This football club has always stood for far more than what happens for 90 minutes on a matchday, and the Trust demonstrates that every single day.
“Generating almost £21 million in social value in a single season is an outstanding achievement, but the real impact is measured in the lives that have been changed – young people discovering new opportunities, children finding a sense of belonging, and families receiving support when they need it most.
“The Club and the Trust work hand in hand to make a positive difference across Reading and Berkshire. To everyone involved in delivering that work, thank you. You represent this football club with tremendous pride and make an extraordinary difference to our community.”
