Cumberland FA is delighted to announce that its partnership with Specsavers has been renewed for a seventh season, which will see more players benefit in 2023/24. 

Since the partnership began in 2018, more than 226 young players across Cumberland have benefitted from over £11,000 which has been directly invested by the County FA into a scheme that supports safe and inclusive football across the county.

Registered players aged 18 and under, who currently wear or need glasses to participate in grassroots football in Cumberland, are once again eligible for up to a 50% reimbursement (up to £49.50) on protective eyewear from selected Specsavers stores.

In addition, all registered referees and adults who play for or are involved with Cumberland FA affiliated clubs who wish to purchase protective sportswear from one of the four suppliers will be eligible for a Premium Club Package. This will include a free eye test and a £20 discount on all glasses priced over £99.00 (including 2 for 1).

Ben Snowdon, Cumberland FA Chief Executive Officer, said: “The FA recommends protective eyewear but recognises that this may be an issue for children playing in grassroots football. As a County FA, we have tried to reduce this uncertainty, ensuring the safety of both the wearer and other players, but most importantly encouraging and supporting new and existing players in playing the game. We are delighted that we have been able to continue our partnership with Specsavers – and we thank the four stores for their continued support of the local game.”

Daniel Wood, Specsavers Retail Director, added: “It's a pleasure again to be supporting the Cumberland FA's initiative to supply grassroot footballers with protective eyewear. During the cost of living crisis, I applaud the Cumberland FA's commitment to helping towards 50% of the cost of this protective eyewear. Our staff at Specsavers are committed to supporting this initiative for the next year and we look forward to helping all with visual needs have the opportunity to play football safely.”

As well as the support from Cumberland FA, the Carlisle Glass Longhorn Youth Football League and the West Cumbria Youth League have once again confirmed their commitment to provide a further 50% (or £50) off the cost to registered players; meaning players within these leagues can receive the sports-specific protective eyewear at no cost to themselves.

Specified sports protective eyewear and lenses have been priced at £99, unless specialist frames/lenses or prescription is required, in which case the store will discuss with the applicant and CFA to agree funding.

Once the glasses have been purchased from one of the selected stores (Carlisle, Penrith, Whitehaven or Workington), customers can then complete an online 23-24 application form below and submit it to Cumberland FA for approval (along with a copy of their receipt).

COMPLETE THE FORM HERE 

If approved, the County FA will reimburse 50% of the cost (up to £49.50) within 28 days of the application.

The eyewear will come with a one-year warranty and it should be noted that applicants cannot re-apply for the funding within a 12-month period unless the prescription changes.

This year our recommended insurance broker, Sportsguard, offers up to £50 for broken or damaged sports glasses through their youth team personal accident policy. 

Please note that this seasons scheme will close on the 31st May 2024 and no applications will be accepted after this date, with a view to reopening in August 2024. 

If you have any questions regarding this initiative then please CLICK HERE