The list, which was released in the latest issue of the magazine, features people and organisations which The Big Issue believed can go on and “make things better” across Britain in the next year. Alongside Football Beyond Borders in receiving this recognition is the former Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion striker Geoff Horsfield, who established the Geoff Horsfield Foundation, providing safe and secure supported accommodation for vulnerable adults within the West Midlands area. Others include Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, Streetwise Opera, and the mental health support charity Tiny Changes. 

This nomination is recognition for an outstanding 2019 for FBB, which saw our work and impact grow across the United Kingdom. With the expansion of our programmes to the North West of England, we worked with over 800 young people each week across the UK with 93% of our at-risk students remaining in mainstream education.

The FBB co-Director Jasper Kain said: “We are delighted to have been selected for this nomination, alongside so many other inspirational organisations. It is recognition for the tireless work of our committed team. At a time when society is in a precarious place, our craft is more necessary than ever before. 2019 was a breakthrough year as we developed our model to be able to offer intensive therapeutic support for at risk students. In 2020 we will roll this programme out in schools across the UK so that we are able to provide young people with the necessary social and emotional support to achieve their potential.”     

A milestone for Football Beyond Borders

Speaking ahead of the release of the Top 100 Change-Makers of 2020, The Big Issue editor Paul McNamee said: “This is the second time we have dedicated an entire edition of the magazine to celebrating 100 awe-inspiring people and organisations who we believe are changing the world in significant ways and giving us all hope for the future.

“They all deserve our attention and support for their tireless efforts to make a difference. These are the true champions of change in our society and The Big Issue is proud to shine a light on them.”

Go and support The Big Issue and read more about the Top 100 Change-Makers of 2020 by picking up the latest issue of the magazine from your local vendour, or visit the Big Issue Shop.