In an exciting new collaboration, Bromley FC Community Trust has teamed up with The Glades to take meaningful steps towards making football more accessible and enjoyable for all fans.

Inspired by The Glades’ Sensory Borrow Backpacks initiative, which supports visitors with sensory sensitivities, this partnership will see a number of these specially designed backpacks donated to the Trust to pilot at upcoming Bromley FC Men’s and Women’s home fixtures.

Each backpack includes carefully selected items such as ear defenders, fidget toys, and visual aids to help reduce anxiety and sensory overload—creating a calmer, more comfortable environment for children and adults who may find live matchdays overwhelming.

“This is about opening our doors wider and making football at Bromley FC an even more welcoming space for everyone to enjoy,” said Jeff Hutton, CEO of Bromley FC Community Trust. “We’re incredibly grateful to The Glades for their generosity and shared vision. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.”

Sarah Goldsmith, Assistant Centre Director at The Glades added, “At The Glades, we truly care about making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. As Assistant Centre Director – and as a mum to a child with autism – I understand how overwhelming busy public spaces like shopping centres or football stadiums can be for people with sensory sensitivities. That’s exactly why we created our Sensory Borrow Backpacks, available for both children and adults to use from our Guest Services Lounge, to help make visits feel a little less stressful.

It’s been a real joy to share this initiative with Bromley FC. Football is such a special part of our community, and we believe everyone should have the chance to enjoy matchdays in a way that feels right for them. If these backpacks can bring a bit more comfort and confidence to even one family, then it’s absolutely worth it.”

Want to try a Sensory Backpack at our next game?

We’re offering supporters the opportunity to pre-book a Sensory Borrow Backpack for use at our upcoming home matches. If you or your child would benefit from using one, simply email us at community@bromleyfc.org or call us on 0208 460 5291 (Option 4) to reserve a backpack.

This is one of many steps being taken as part of a wider commitment by the Community Trust and Bromley FC to explore how we can make our stadium and club more inclusive for fans of all backgrounds and needs.

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