Festive Friends is a brilliant opportunity for clubs to give back to their local communities.

41 SPFL associated community trusts & clubs will work with local partners to identify older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated, including Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The programme is expected to support around 3,600 people this year across Scotland.

It’s been a difficult year for everyone, as we deal with the pressures of the cost of living crisis. But of course, winter is always a tough time for older people, who may be experiencing loneliness.

Around 13,000 people have enjoyed Festive Friends in the last seven years and that number is expected to reach nearly 17,000 this year.

This year there will be an increased focus on in-person events, and Inverness CT Community Development  staff and volunteers will continue to welcome participants to the ground to enjoy a hot Christmas lunch, fun and games, a club gift and transport there and home. 

Clubs will also deliver hampers to those who might not be able to attend events at the stadium. Hampers usually contain food, snacks, gifts, games and more. Some clubs even send video messages from managers and players; others have players make personal deliveries.

SPFL Trust CEO Nicky Reid said: “Festive Friends is a highlight in the SPFL Trust calendar, and one of the biggest events for our colleagues at clubs and community trusts across Scotland.

“It’s all about coming together to have a real impact in the lives of older people who might be experiencing loneliness throughout the festive period.

“It’s Christmas spirit in action as we see the power that SPFL clubs and associated community trusts have in their communities. 

"Our research shows that almost 83% of people live within ten miles of a SPFL ground - because of this clubs and their associated community trusts are well positioned to support change in their communities.

"This year 42 clubs are involved, and we look forward to spreading festive magic to many across Scotland, bringing kindness and compassion this Christmas."

Community Trust Manager Craig Masterton said: “We are excited to be running this project for the 7th consecutive year. Being a part of this fantastic SPFL Trust project to help our local community during the festive period is a vital part of our key mission at the Inverness Caledonian Thistle Community Development Trust.”

We will be collecting donations at the First Team game vs Arbroath on the 16th December. 
 

For more information on Festive Friends visit: www.spfltrust.org.uk/festivefriends