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Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT) is set to launch Healthy Goals, a new health and wellbeing initiative that will provide free, accessible fitness and wellbeing sessions for young people and adults in communities across Nottingham and Kirkby-in-Ashfield.

Funded by the Premier League, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and the Public Health teams within Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council, Healthy Goals is designed to reduce health inequalities by making it easier for people to access regular physical activity, mental health support, and positive social connection in their local community.

The programme will offer weekly sessions at multiple venues across Nottingham City, alongside one location in Ashfield, giving participants the chance to take part in high-energy exercise, wellbeing activities, and team-based challenges in a safe and welcoming environment. By removing cost and access barriers, Healthy Goals aims to improve both physical and mental health outcomes for teenagers and adults alike.

A proven commitment to health and wellbeing

Health and wellbeing is a core pillar of NFCT’s organisational strategy, reflecting its long-standing commitment to helping people live healthier, happier, and more resilient lives.

Through programmes such as Healthy Communities, Walking Football, Premier League Kicks and a range of community-based physical activity and lifestyle projects, the Trust has built a strong track record of improving outcomes for individuals and families across Nottinghamshire.

Independent evaluation shows that NFCT’s work has a meaningful impact. Data from the Trust’s 2024/25 Impact Report revealed that:

→86% of participants said their involvement with NFCT had a positive or very positive impact on their physical wellbeing.

→85% of participants reported the same for their mental wellbeing.

→Individuals who engage with NFCT are 73% physically active, which is 9.1% higher than the national average.

This evidence demonstrates NFCT’s ability to deliver high-quality, inclusive health programmes that make a measurable difference to the lives of local people.

Working in partnership

Colin Eley, Health & Wellbeing Manager at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said:

“We know how important physical activity and mental wellbeing are to leading healthier, happier lives.

“Healthy Goals is our commitment to making that support available for everyone, no matter their background or circumstances.

“By working closely with Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, and our local communities, we have identified the areas most in need of support and are bringing sessions directly to them.

“Building on the success of our two-year Healthy Communities programme, funded by the Premier League and PFA, Healthy Goals takes the next step in helping people move more, feel better, and connect with others in a safe and welcoming environment.”

The launch of Healthy Goals highlights the value of partnership between sport, local authorities, and community organisations. By combining funding from the Premier League Charitable Fund and the PFA with support from both city and county councils, the programme is designed to maximise reach, sustainability, and impact.

Driving long-term impact

Healthy Goals is part of NFCT’s wider mission to use the power of football and sport to change lives. By providing free and inclusive opportunities, the Trust hopes to encourage long-term behaviour change, reduce health inequalities, and support stronger, healthier communities.

Further information on Healthy Goals and how to get involved will be shared via the Community Trust’s website and social channels.