Campaign invites fans to donate pre-loved football tops, which are then upcycled and sold to raise vital funds
There was political unity with a twist at Holyrood as MSPs from all parties ditched their usual suits in favour of football tops - in support of a new life-changing campaign from award winning charity, Street Soccer.
A cross-party team of MSPs, including First Minister John Swinney, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport Maree Todd, and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, came together to back Kitback, a charitable initiative that’s giving old football shirts a fresh purpose – by using them to fight homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion across Scotland and beyond.
Spearheaded by Street Soccer, the campaign invites fans to donate their pre-loved football tops, which are then upcycled and sold to raise vital funds. It’s football fashion with a heart – and a sharp eye on the environment too.
David Duke MBE, founder of Street Soccer, said: “Kitback is more than just a campaign – it’s a movement.
“It’s about passion for football, yes – but it’s also about helping communities, tackling big issues, and uniting people behind something good. Even the non-football fans in parliament got behind it!
“It was uplifting to see the MSPs working as one team, and getting behind such an important initiative.”
MSPs stood side by side, sporting shirts from clubs and countries across the globe, proving that while they may differ on several political issues, they’re united in the power of football to change lives.
The initiative doesn’t just offer a boost to those in need – it’s also a win for the planet. By promoting reuse and reducing waste, Kitback is helping fans lower their carbon footprint and support the circular economy.
Football lovers across Scotland are being urged to get involved by donating shirts, setting up collection points, spreading the word, or simply buying a bit of retro kit with a powerful story behind it.
Sponsoring MSP Ben Macpherson said: “I am always pleased to support Street Soccer Scotland, based in Leith in my constituency, and play my part in promoting and backing the life-changing work that they do. “Kitback is a cool and exciting new initiative, and I encourage everyone to donate any good condition football strips that they no longer want, and help make a meaningful difference through the power of football.”
For more information and to register as a supporter, contact Darryn Cain, Kitback co-ordinator, at darryn@kitback.org.uk.
