The Russell Martin Foundation’s Change Makers programme is returning for a second year, bringing former professional footballers together with local students to provide positive role models and support beyond the classroom.

Following last year’s delivery, RMF has been awarded further funding through the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund to run the programme again at Brighton Aldridge Community Academy (BACA).

Led by former professional footballer Charlie Oatway, Change Makers gives boys space to talk openly, ask questions and learn from people with a wealth of experience in football and life.

Charlie will be joined by ex professional footballers Russell Martin, Mark McGhee, Chris Whelpdale, Larry May, Paul Rogers and  Richard Carpenter. Together, they will share personal experiences of handling pressure, overcoming setbacks and making positive choices, drawing on lessons learned both on and off the pitch.

Through mentoring, practical activities and discussions, the programme explores respect, consent, healthy relationships, wellbeing and accountability. It also tackles harmful online influences and discriminatory attitudes, encouraging participants to think critically and understand how their choices affect others.

The former players’ involvement helps show boys that asking for support, treating others with respect and taking responsibility are strengths.

For RMF, Change Makers uses the connection football creates to start meaningful conversations and help young people build confidence in themselves and their future.

We are grateful to the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund for supporting another year of Change Makers and helping us continue this work with local young people.

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