Freelance Facilitator – Same Shirt, Different Lives
Daily rate: £230 | Start date: ASAP | Location: North of England, with occasional travel elsewhere in the UK
About The Roots Programme
The Roots Programme CIC brings people together across divides, working towards equality and social justice. We believe that a more connected, curious and compassionate society is possible. Our new Same Shirt, Different Lives project uses football to foster understanding and connection between fans who share a club but live very different lives.
About the Project: Same Shirt, Different Lives
Across the UK, social divisions are widening between generations, neighbourhoods and lived experiences. In a time of polarisation, many people feel unseen, unheard and disconnected.
Same Shirt, Different Lives uses football’s unifying power to bring people together through their shared love of the game. By partnering with English football clubs, the project creates space for fans to connect through story-sharing, conversation and curiosity.
Facilitators will lead small-group sessions with football fans, helping participants explore identity, community and belonging through open dialogue, storytelling and reflection.
The Role
We are seeking experienced, empathetic freelance facilitators to deliver community-based sessions with football supporters.
You will:
- Deliver engaging, inclusive and reflective workshops that encourage dialogue across difference.
- Build trust and connection among fans, helping them share stories and experiences respectfully.
- Collaborate with partner football clubs and Roots staff to plan and deliver sessions.
- Provide feedback on workshop outcomes and contribute to the ongoing development of the project.
- Uphold The Roots Programme’s values and ensure safe, supportive environments for all participants.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience facilitating community conversations or workshops.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Confidence leading discussions with adult groups.
- Commitment to equality, inclusion and social connection.
- Flexibility to travel to football clubs or community venues.
- Reliable internet connection and ability to work independently.
- Right to work in the UK.
Desirable
- Knowledge of or passion for football and fan culture.
- Experience engaging men’s groups, fan networks or sports-based community programmes.
- Lived experience of issues affecting community connection or social division.
Safeguarding and Compliance
- Subject to enhanced DBS check.
- Completion of safeguarding training.
- Agreement to The Roots Programme Code of Conduct.
- Responsible for own tax and National Insurance as a freelancer.
- Compliance with Roots Programme policies including Safeguarding and GDPR.
- Two professional references required.
Fees and Benefits
- £230 per day for facilitation.
- Paid time for induction, training and project briefings.
- Travel and accommodation expenses covered where required.
- Quarterly team check-ins and development opportunities.
How to Apply
To apply, send your CV and a short cover letter (1-2 sides A4) to olivia@rootsprogramme.org.
For an informal chat about the project, email the same address.
The Roots Programme actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and identities, matching skills and experience to our project needs regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or sexual orientation.
Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.