We are looking for directors!

Our directors play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of the Foundation, ensuring good governance, and safeguarding the charity’s resources so that it can deliver the greatest possible impact.

As a director, you will bring your skills, experience, and enthusiasm to help the Foundation thrive and strengthen its contribution to the community.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our commitment to community empowerment through football. You do not need prior director or trustee experience—we will provide induction and training.

About Lewes Football Foundation

Lewes Football Foundation was established in 2024 as a non-profit company limited by guarantee (registered number 15904877). We are in the process of applying for charitable status.

The Foundation serves as an umbrella organisation, representing independently constituted community football clubs in Lewes that proudly play under the Lewes FC badge and kit, and are accredited by the Football Association, as part of the main club. Our mission is to improve football facilities, strengthen football provision, and support the community by enhancing systems and recruiting dedicated volunteers.

Our clubs include Lewes Juniors (boys and girls), currently comprising 21 teams with over 300 players aged 6–17 years, alongside Walking Football, Football for Wellbeing, Saturday Rooks, Lewes Select and Lewes Vets. The Vets include both men’s and women’s teams for players aged 35 and over. Together, over 100 volunteer coaches, facilitators, managers, and committee members work to deliver accessible, inclusive community football in Lewes.

The details

Key responsibilities:

governance and strategy: contribute to setting the strategic vision, ensuring activities align with the Foundation’s mission and objectives
oversight: monitor the Foundation’s financial health, compliance with company and charity law, and adherence to good governance practices
ambassadorship: act as a visible advocate for the Foundation, helping to raise its profile and extend its networks
support and challenge: provide constructive support and challenge to the Foundation’s leadership team, helping shape projects and initiatives
community connection: ensure the Foundation remains rooted in the needs of the local footballing community
fundraising and development: where possible, contribute to identifying opportunities for funding, partnerships, and sustainable growth
practical operational support that could include bookings, events, marketing, finance and/or hands-on maintenance and matchday support.

Person specification

Essential qualities:

passion for football and sport as a force for good in society.
commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
strategic thinking and sound judgment.
willingness to work collaboratively and collectively in a board setting.
understanding of the responsibilities of charity directors (or willingness to learn).

Desirable experience (welcomed but not required):

background in community development, youth engagement, health and wellbeing, or education.
skills in events, fundraising, marketing, finance, safeguarding, or governance.
knowledge of Lewes and its surrounding communities.

What we offer:

the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adults across Lewes and beyond.
a supportive and inclusive board with diverse skills and experiences.
induction and ongoing training in charity governance.
opportunities to attend community events and matches as part of your role.

How to apply

Please send a short expression of interest (no more than 500 words) outlining why you would like to be a director and what you could bring to the Foundation.

Deadline: Ongoing

Contact: Miranda Kemp, Director, Lewes Football Foundation at info@lewesfootballfoundation.org

Code of conduct

Respect and inclusion

Respect everyone – Treat all participants, facilitators, and volunteers with kindness, dignity, and respect.
Inclusive for all – Everyone is welcome, regardless of ability, gender, age, ethnicity, or background.
Zero tolerance for discrimination – Any form of discrimination, bullying, or harassment will not be tolerated.

Safety and well-being

Play responsibly – Avoid overly aggressive or dangerous behaviour on the pitch.
Mental health awareness – Be mindful of others’ challenges and offer support where appropriate.
Speak up – If you or someone else feels unsafe or uncomfortable, report it to the session facilitator immediately.

Equipment and attire

Correct footwear – Only football boots with plastic studs are allowed. Blades or metal studs are strictly prohibited.
Shin pads required – Shin pads must be worn at all times for safety. Participants without shin pads may not be allowed to play.

Teamwork and sportsmanship

Fair play – Play with integrity, follow the rules, and respect facilitators and referees.
Encourage others – Support teammates with positive reinforcement, avoiding criticism.
Value participation – Focus on enjoyment, effort, and well-being rather than competition and winning.

Confidentiality

Respect privacy – Personal conversations and shared experiences within sessions should remain confidential.

Commitment to growth

Be open to feedback – Constructive feedback helps improve the experience for everyone.
Engage fully – Participate to the best of your ability while respecting your own and others’ limits.

Practical guidelines

Punctuality – Arrive on time and notify the facilitator if you cannot attend.
Respect the space – Keep the pitch and surrounding areas clean; dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Care for equipment – Use all equipment respectfully and return it after use.

Consequences for violations

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in a warning, being asked to sit out, or removal from the session, depending on the severity of the behaviour.

This code ensures that football for well-being remains a safe, positive, and supportive space for all. Thank you for contributing to an inclusive football community.