Croydon Walking Football for Wellbeing

Croydon Walking Football for Wellbeing

Walking and Cycling Grants London is funded by Transport for London, in partnership with the London Marathon Foundation, and delivered by Groundwork London.

Tom Lowe from the Walking and Cycling Grants London team shared:

“TfL and the London Marathon Foundation are delighted to support this unique walking football project, helping to improve the health, wellbeing, and social connections of older adults and diverse communities across Croydon. We wish the project every success as it continues through 2026.”

Overview

Croydon Walking Football for Wellbeing is an inclusive, community-led nine-month programme focused on improving physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connection through football.

Delivered at #Merky FC HQ in Selhurst, the programme brings together people from different backgrounds and age groups in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.

A key element of the programme is its intergenerational approach, where younger and older participants take part together, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships.

What is Walking Football?

Walking football is a low-impact version of the game designed to be accessible to all. Participants walk instead of run, creating a safer and more inclusive experience while still benefiting from the physical and social aspects of football.

The focus is on movement, enjoyment, and connection, rather than competition.

What We Deliver

Our weekly sessions include:

· Guided warm-ups and structured walking football activities

· Inclusive coaching tailored to a range of abilities

· Wellbeing-focused elements such as posture, breathing, and movement

· Intergenerational sessions bringing together younger and older participants

· Walking challenges and activity tracking to encourage ongoing participation

Who It’s For?

This programme supports:

• Older adults aged 60+

• Young people aged 16–24

• Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities

• Refugees and asylum seekers

• Individuals who are inactive, socially isolated, or looking to improve their wellbeing

Why This Programme Matters

Many people face barriers to physical activity, including health conditions, low confidence, financial pressures, and limited access to inclusive spaces.

Walking football helps overcome these challenges by offering a safe, low-impact, and welcoming environment where participants can engage at their own pace.

By bringing different generations together, the programme also strengthens relationships, reduces isolation, and builds a stronger sense of community.

Impact

Through this programme, we:

• Engage over 50 participants from diverse communities

• Increase physical activity levels among inactive individuals

• Reduce isolation and strengthen social connections

• Build confidence and support long-term wellbeing

• Encourage sustainable walking and active lifestyles

Our Approach

We create an environment where people feel:

• Welcome

• Supported

• Connected

By combining physical activity with social interaction and intergenerational engagement, we support participants to build healthier, more active lifestyles that continue beyond the session.