The Charlton Upbeats programme provides activities to help reduce isolation for players with Down’s syndrome and is entirely funded by voluntary donations.
The annual Upbeats Walk fundraiser usually sees fans make the 10-mile walk from the Football Club training ground at Sparrows Lane to The Valley, but COVID regulations have meant that fans will now complete the walk in their own time.
Charlton have a proud history of promoting equality and inclusion and we are proud to be working alongside Charlton FC and the Community Trust (CACT) to support diversity in our community.
In previous years, our students have been involved on match days with Charlton Athletic and in supporting the Community Trust programmes through volunteer and work placement opportunities.
This year, you can still get involved in supporting the Upbeats by walking a mile in your local area, donating £10 to the project and nominating someone else to do the same.
Share photos and join the conversation on social media by using #UpbeatsWalk and tag @CAFCTrust @CAFCOfficial
Upbeats in the community
The Upbeats programme has been running for 13 years and provides regular activities and engagement for young people and adults with Down's syndrome. It helps to reduce isolation for the programme participants and their families in South East London and Kent.
The past year has been particularly tough for the Upbeats, but having the support of their football team through virtual events has made things a little easier.
The Upbeats have provided a bit of an oasis…giving activities for Jonathan and the others to do on Zoom. They’ve been a tremendous help and very supportive to get us through these tough times.
David West, father of Upbeats player Jonathan
Whilst restrictions mean that the Upbeats Walk is once again a virtual event this year, the Upbeats players have returned to training and will return to the field to play an Upbeats all-stars match prior to the Charlton Athletic FC League One clash with Peterborough United on Saturday.
The Charlton Upbeats Down's syndrome team is fully funded by voluntary donations so your support makes a huge difference. Donate to the Upbeats here.
Watch Charlton live streamed
All staff and students can sign up to the ballot for Charlton Athletic FC’s Valley Pass for the chance to win a free pass to watch their home games streamed live at The Valley.
You can enter the ballot here - by completing the form you will be entered into the ballot for all of the home fixtures for the 20/21 season.
