Location and general information
Access to Sport - 
Children with disabilities - 
Conflict victims - 
Gender Equality - 
Healthy lifestyle - 
Personal developmentContext
Intellectually disabled children in Thuringia often face exclusion from mainstream schools, football clubs and social life. Many love football but lack access due to stigma, financial barriers or lack of support. Girls are especially affected. Unified Football breaks down these barriers through inclusive school and club activities, role models from pro clubs and life-changing events like the Unified Football tournaments – promoting visibility, health, friendships and confidence for all.
Project goals
- Promote inclusion in schools, clubs and communities, creating shared experiences that break down stigma and build empathy
- Improve the physical and mental health of intellectually disabled children and young adults while also teaching non-disabled people tolerance, compassion and teamwork
- Raise visibility and inspire replication, especially in rural Thuringia, through collaborations with (professional) clubs
Project content
Unified Football brings together intellectually disabled and non-disabled children through weekly inclusive football sessions in schools and clubs, awareness-raising workshops, unified community events and inclusive tournaments. The programme fosters empathy, mutual respect, well-being and teamwork. It helps create lasting friendships, reduces stigma and breaks down barriers. Unified Football proves that football is for everyone, regardless of ability, on and off the pitch, locally and internationally.
Partner
