Carlisle United Football Club and University of Cumbria make significant progress in 250 days

The University of Cumbria and Carlisle United Football Club signed a Memorandum of Understanding in March. This details how the two organisations would work together on areas of common interest to support the community and development of vital higher-level skills for the region following the university's support of the “One Carlisle. One Community” game in spring 2024.

There has been significant progress made across a range of areas in the last 250 days since the signing, including sustainability, green travel, public engagement and workforce development.

Dr Jonathan Eaton, Pro Vice Chancellor (Learning & Teaching) at University of Cumbria said:

“We are making great progress in developing the partnership between Carlisle United Football Club and the University of Cumbria to support our students and the wider communities that we serve, recognising we’re stronger when we work together for everyone who chooses to live, work, visit and study in Carlisle  and the surrounding area now and in the future. This includes facilitating exciting and innovative learning opportunities for our students to provide them with the skills they will need for future success.”

Nigel Clibbens, Chief Executive at Carlisle United Football Club said:

“We are delighted with our growing relationship with University of Cumbria.  We are working together on a number of joint projects with lots of people involved from both organisations, that are advancing forward.

“For example, this has covered film and media on the Heritage project (where fans will see unique cine footage from years’ gone by), medical work experience opportunities with the Academy, sustainability projects and ticketing to name just a few areas. Our partnership and collaboration will go from strength to strength.”

Student industry placements to benefit university students

Since the new season began, the university has had a mix of students joining the club to work along the specialist physiotherapists already delivering care to the players, including the Academy. This will be strengthened further with more placements for University of Cumbria students in addition to other enriching experiences such as volunteering and guest speakers across a range of professional fields.

Sarah Smith, Principal Lecturer (Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy) within the university's respected Institute of Health, said:

“For many people, a career in physiotherapy is the dream and for some that dream means working in football. As part of the training to become a physiotherapist, there is a requirement to complete several clinical placements. For a lucky number that could be with a football team.

“Marking 250 days since the agreed partnership between Carlisle United FC and University of Cumbria, we are thrilled to been able to increase the number of these placements. These opportunities are vital in the development of our future physiotherapists.”

Joint Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) activity to support local communities

Activities are underway including the university providing an external critical friend review of the Carlisle United EDI strategy, with recommendations and considerations that the League Two football club can include as part of their plans.

The university and football club joined forces at Cumbria Pride, hosting a joint stall as part of continued engagement with the local community and in support of LGBTQ+ equality.

Carlisle United FC representatives supported the university’s Social Work EDI conference on 21 October, hosting workshops with a race equality focus, which had a theme of ‘Allyship in Action’. Further examples of collaboration include activity linked to the university’s White Ribbon accreditation and Disability Confident Leader validation.

University of Cumbria EDI Officer Lee McDermot said:

“We’re delighted with the progress we have made so far and are fully committed to continued authentic action in this space.

“As we move into 2025, further exciting developments will come to fruition as the partnership plan matures.”

Discounted ticketing for university students and staff

A staff and student discount scheme has been introduced for this football season where home match tickets are available at a discounted price of £14 (terrace) or £17 (seating), a saving of £6 per ticket. 

ENDS