Hundreds of players came together to mark Refugee Week at the fourth annual United for Sanctuary Football Festival, held at Wallsend Boys Club. The event brought together more than 140 participants from across the region for a day of football, friendship, and community spirit.
Inclusive event for all backgrounds
The festival welcomed people of all ages and backgrounds, including refugees, sanctuary seekers, and community organisations, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone connected through sport. The partnership behind the festival includes Wallsend Boys Club, Walking With, North Tyneside Council, Newcastle United Foundation, and Newcastle City Council, which has grown in size and impact over the last four years.
Activities and friendly matches
Taking place on Saturday, June 20, participants took part in friendly matches, activities, and celebrations that highlighted the power of football and sport to break down barriers, build relationships, and promote understanding between different communities.
Shams Moussa, from Walking With, said: "The most important part of this event is people coming together, sharing, laughing and being together. This is the fourth year we've put the football festival on and each year it makes our communities stronger. Watch out Soccer Aid- we're going to get as big as you!"
Positive turnout and lasting impact
Organisers praised the fantastic turnout and positive atmosphere, thanking all players, volunteers, partners, and supporters who helped make the event possible. The success of the festival demonstrated how sport can unite people, create a sense of belonging, and strengthen community connections, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who took part.
