Barclays believe in creating opportunities for all through access to sport. Through the Barclays Community Sport Fund, we want to grow participation at every level and have grants dedicated to getting more women qualified across the UK to coach girls’ football at a grassroots level.

Increasing the number of high-quality female coaches in the girls’ game is crucial to improving standards, meeting the increased demand of girls now playing, and showing girls – through local female role models – that they can be involved in football in a variety of ways.

Barclays is dedicating grants through the Barclays Community Sport Fund to get more women qualified as coaches for girls.

Who is eligible to apply?

This fund is available to all clubs and groups that run football, cricket or tennis activities for girls and aspire to get more female coaches qualified. You are eligible even if you have already received a grant from the Barclays Community Sport Fund.

We welcome applications from not-for-profit organisations, including community groups, youth groups, and traditional sports clubs, who are submitting on behalf of the individuals who want to undertake their coaching qualifications.

Groups are welcome to apply from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

To be eligible for funding, the female coaches you put forward must meet the following criteria:

• Aged 16+
• Already coaching girls or would like to start
• Part of a club or group with girls’ provision where they would like to
• Begin or continue coaching (i.e. current player, parent of a player,volunteer etc.)
• Can undertake their coaching qualification within 12 months (subject to course availability)

To check you are eligible and make sure you have all the information you need to apply, please click here.

How much can I apply for?

You can apply for two grants per club to cover the cost of, or a contribution towards, a Level 1 or equivalent introductory qualification and any additional safeguarding and first aid requirements for your sport. You can apply to upskill up to two female coaches at your club or group.

Level 1 coaching grants:

• Tennis – £200 grant

What are the open and closing dates for the fund?

The female coaches for girls fund opened on 22 April 2025 remains open until 31 December 2025.

Find out more and apply here.