Facing the threat of persecution and death for playing football as women, the Afghanistan Women & Development Football Team, supported by Play for Change along with other partners, fled the Taliban in September and finally made it safely to the UK in November.

This certainly was an incredible achievement and a demonstration that we are stronger together, as this was by all means an extraordinary group effort. The support and solidarity being offered to the players and their families by the football community has been inspiring to see. But there is still a lot of work to be done!

With their long and courageous journey complete it's time for these talented players to start a new chapter to enable a brighter and safer future!

The group is staying in temporary accommodation in the North of England while they await further support and news on their next steps, with the hope of rebuilding a new life.

Transitioning to life and a future in the UK is a complex and challenging prospect as the players and their families were forced to flee Afghanistan without any of their possessions, leaving behind clothes, mobile phones, laptops and other comforts.

Alongside a network of not-for-profit organisations, Play for Change is focused on giving the Afghanistan Women & Development Football Team the support they need to build happy and prosperous lives in their new home which will allow the group to be actively integrated into the community.

Your donation will fund the delivery of a long-term sustainable programme, offering mental health support, educational and sports activities to help the girls unleash new possibilities. We cant wait to see them thrive!

Imagine being threatened with death and having to leave everything behind, including your family and friends, to face an uncertain future.

Helping these girls and women will give them a real chance of rebuilding their lives free from fear and persecution.

We stand for freedom and equal rights, beyond any and all cultural, social and economical barriers. We are committed to developing sustainable integrated communities.