Kitback aims to make a difference through the sale of pre-loved, upcycled football shirts

A new social enterprise has been launched which combines the nation’s love of football with social impact.

Kitback aims to make a difference through the sale of pre-loved, upcycled football shirts.

All proceeds from the initiative will go towards supporting the life-changing work of award winning charity Street Soccer, which works to address homelessness, mental health, social exclusion, problem substance use and poverty.

Launching across the country, Kitback will collect pre-loved football shirts from donors at dedicated drop-off points or by post and upcycle them in preparation for resale.

All shirts from teams, leagues, and countries across the globe are welcomed, offering a wide range of options for like-minded football enthusiasts to choose from.

Each purchase made through Kitback gives fans a chance to own a piece of football history while contributing to greater causes.

Supporting the launch, football clubs, players and foundations are getting involved. Fulham FC Foundation have become the first professional club to donate to Kitback with others set to follow suit in the coming weeks and months.

As well as addressing key societal issues, the initiative also promotes environmental benefits by reducing waste and the demand for new clothing production, lowering football fans’ environmental footprint and keeping the circular economy moving.

As Kitback grows, another significant impact the social enterprise will have is to create jobs and volunteering opportunities for Street Soccer players and the wider community, helping to develop skills and experience that can be carried forward into the wider employment environment.

David Duke MBE, social entrepreneur and founder of Street Soccer Scotland, expressed his enthusiasm for the new initiative.

He said: “Kitback is more than just a campaign; it's a movement that brings together our shared passion for football and our collective commitment to helping our local communities.

“Football has a unique ability to unite people behind social causes and through Kitback, supporters can make a real difference. By donating your pre-loved football shirts and buying from Kitback when adding a new kit to your collection, you’re not only reducing environmental waste but also helping to empower and enrich people’s lives through everything we do at Street Soccer.”

Football fans, players and clubs are encouraged to come together with businesses and organisations to join the Kitback movement by donating and purchasing shirts, spreading the word, facilitating drop-off points and taking part in kit donation days during the year.

For more information and to register as a Supporter, contact Darryn Cain, Kitback co-ordinator, at darryn@kitback.org.uk