Croydon Walking Football for Wellbeing

Walking and Cycling Grants London is a programme funded by Transport for London in partnership with the London Marathon Foundation and managed by Groundwork London.

Overview

Croydon Walking Football for Wellbeing is an inclusive, community-led programme that improves physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connection through football.

The programme takes place at Merky FC HQ in Selhurst and brings together people from different backgrounds and age groups in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.

At the heart of our programme is a strong intergenerational approach, where younger and older participants take part together, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections.

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 enjoying the social and physical benefits of football.

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

What We Deliver

We deliver weekly sessions that include:

• Guided warm-ups and structured walking football games

• Inclusive coaching tailored to different ability levels

• 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 is designed for:

• Older adults aged 60+

• Young people aged 16–24

• Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities

• Refugees and asylum seekers

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

Why This Programme Matters

Many people face barriers to physical activity, including health conditions, low confidence, financial constraints, and lack of access to inclusive spaces.

Walking football removes these barriers by providing a safe, low-impact, and welcoming environment where participants can take part at their own pace.

By bringing different generations together, the programme also strengthens relationships, reduces isolation, and builds a greater 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 activity habits

Our Approach

We create an environment where people feel:

• Welcome

• Supported

• Connected

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