Manchester United Foundation’s charitable work takes place in the areas of highest social deprivation – and that couldn’t be any truer of one of its 77 partner schools, Haslam Park Primary School, on the outskirts of Greater Manchester, in Bolton.

Situated in one of the top 20% most deprived areas of the UK, the situation for many children in such areas can, sadly, be bleak – particularly with the on-going cost-of-living crisis and rising poverty.

“Many of our children have all of the markers of high deprivation, which might mean families don’t have enough money for gas and electric,” said the school’s headteacher, Kati-Anne Roughley.

Along with concerns about staying warm being raised by Youth Voice representatives from Foundation programmes, it’s this stark reality that has to led to an intervention being made for several years in succession, with warm items and resources provided to help young people and their families during winter.

“Knowing the extent of these difficulties, it’s vital that the Foundation offers its hand in support to the young people – and their families – who we serve, particularly following the conversations we’ve had with our young people,” said the Foundation’s Chief Executive, John Shiels.

"This year, that has entailed a £100,000 investment in blankets – with 9,000 purchased and distributed across the Foundation’s school network last month, ready to help those who need it ahead of the festive season.

“Some of our children come to school in coats that aren’t warm enough, and go to homes that aren’t warm enough,” Kati added. “Blankets are a really helpful way for us to help the children be warm and comfortable. They will be a great, helpful and fun way for them to have a little bit of extra warmth.”

Blankets have been complemented by the Foundation’s second annual coat appeal, where fans at Old Trafford and Leigh Sports Village were encouraged to make a donation in early November – leading to an incredible sum of over 2,250 coats being received.

Coats have been distributed to schools alongside the blankets, and will also support those accessing two local charities: Two Brews and Mustard Tree.

Not only this, but the Foundation distributed toys to children ahead of the festive season, using £5,652 in funds raised from one of the ‘Warm Up’ Supporters' Club events at Old Trafford – supported by 340 fans from across 32 international Supporters’ Clubs.

John added: “With this investment, complemented by the support of Manchester United fans, we hope this small action can make a huge difference to those who need it most, against the stark landscape of a continuing cost-of-living crisis and rising fuel poverty.”

Kati concludes: “It’s like being supported by a friend, which is important, because if we give children a donation where there isn’t a link, they may feel embarrassed to take it. “I think it’s so important that it comes from the Foundation and the children are always so grateful and happy.”

Visit mufoundation.org for more information.