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Nottingham Forest Community Trust is proud to launch its 2025 Annual Review, showcasing a year of significant impact, meaningful community engagement, and an unprecedented moment of visibility on the European stage.

Through programmes spanning health and wellbeing, education, employability and community engagement, the Trust continues to create opportunities for people across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, supporting thousands of participants from a wide range of backgrounds.

Chief Executive Officer Calum Osborne described 2025 as a year of “consolidation and focus”, with the Trust remaining clear about its priorities and where it can make the greatest difference despite a challenging external environment

Key Highlights from 2025

Centre Stage in Europe

In a landmark moment for the Trust, Nottingham Forest’s men’s first team wore shirts featuring the Community Trust name across five UEFA Europa League fixtures. Made possible through the support of the club’s principal partner, Bally’s, the initiative showcased the Trust’s work to audiences across Europe and highlighted the importance of community investment on a global stage.

£52.5 Million in Social Value

The Trust’s Social Value Report (2023-25) confirmed that its programmes generated more than £52.5 million in social value across two seasons, delivering over £13 for every £1 invested. Social value increased by 21% year on year, rising from £23.8 million in 2023/24 to £28.7 million in 2024/25.

Strong Impact Outcomes

The second edition of the Trust’s Impact Report, developed in partnership with Evid Impact, found that 86% of participants reported improvements in physical wellbeing, while 85% experienced a positive impact on their mental health. Physical activity levels among children and young people aged 11-16 stood at 81%, 38% above the national average.

Forest Sports Zone Redevelopment

Planning approval was secured for the £1.9 million redevelopment of Forest Sports Zone at Forest Fields, the original home of Nottingham Forest Football Club. The project will deliver upgraded all-weather pitches, improved facilities and a new community building, securing the site as a long-term community asset at the heart of Nottingham.

A New Five-Year Strategy

Alongside delivering impact across Nottinghamshire, 2025 has also been a year of reflection and preparation for the future. The Trust has reviewed its strategic direction and begun shaping the next phase of its journey, with a new five-year strategy set to launch in 2026.

Chair of Trustees Judith Lyons highlighted some of the year’s standout achievements: “Improvements in mental wellbeing, where 85% of participants reported a positive impact. Levels of physical activity among children aged 11-16 now stand at 81%, which is 38% above the national average. Our work helps build stronger, more connected communities, and these figures demonstrate that impact.”

The review also celebrates inspiring individual stories that reflect the difference the Trust makes every day. These include Lynn, who transformed her health and confidence through Healthy Horizon Hubs, and Hally, who progressed from a Premier League Kicks participant to refereeing a Play on the Pitch fixture at the City Ground.

Calum Osborne, Chief Executive Officer continued: “I am proud of the progress Nottingham Forest Community Trust has made in 2025 and grateful to everyone who has contributed to our work over the past year.

“Despite a challenging external backdrop, we have remained focused on our priorities and where we can make the greatest difference.

“Community engagement remains at the heart of everything we do. As we look ahead to the launch of our new five-year strategy, we do so with confidence and purpose.

“We remain committed to tackling inequality, improving life chances and bringing people together through shared experiences connected to football.”

The 2025 Annual Review also shares the stories of participants, volunteers, staff and partners whose contributions have shaped the past year, offering a personal insight into the difference the Trust makes across Nottinghamshire every day.

As the Trust looks ahead to 2026, it will continue creating opportunities where they are needed most, helping people across Nottinghamshire to grow, adapt and succeed.

Read more below or download the full report.