Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation by pixelbuilders

COMMUNITY IMPACT

2020/21

Harrogate Town AFC CIO is a registered charity No. 1186826

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY

COVID-19 RESPONSE CLUB AND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE NHS AND THE COMMUNITY...

Harrogate Easier Living Project (HELP) Supporting local people who are unable to leave home to collect vital medicine and shopping • Weekly pick ups and prescription drop offs • Supermarket shopping for 3x vulnerable households every Tuesday and Thursday

As a community focused club we were quick to investigate ways in which we could help, assist and support the ongoing fight against Covid-19.

Resurrected Bites (Food Bank) Using re-claimed food from supermarkets, Resurrected Bites makes sure nothing goes to waste, creating food/ goods care packages for vulnerable members of the community. We were able to utilise Community Manager time and the Ford Transit van kindly donated by Ringways to collect, deliver and transport a whole host of items.

It was clear that everyone involved with the club were desperate to help in their own way. With football due to re-start for Harrogate Town AFC, we were keen to recognise some of the activities, kind gestures and support that you have shown over the last few months.

HG Lockdown Fest HTAFC and the Community Foundation were heavily involved in promoting and participating in this virtual community festival. This included a 30 minute family fitness session led by Darren Simpson, joined by George Thomson and an incredible Matchworn Shirt Auction at which a mega £6,161 was raised for the Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity.

PDC thanks the NHS

Myles for the NHS

In order to react and manage the Community Foundation, Community Manager Iain Service has been working fulltime (albeit this has been far from the ordinary 9-5!) with partner organisations to help vulnerable individuals...

Harry Gator community presence

Do you need help or perhaps know someone that does? If you are struggling to access food through normal supermarkets and stores Resurrected Bites are willing to help; they are sharing out the food they have available to those who need it. To request support you can contact the Resurrected Bites voicemail directly on 01423 593 937. 2

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

NEW COMMUNITY OFFICER TOM BLACKBURN

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

COVID-19 RESPONSE CLUB AND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE NHS AND THE COMMUNITY... IAIN SERVICE, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Walking Football Our loyal band of Walking Footballers, who represent HTAFC in local and regional competitions have started training once again. Based out of Rossett Sports Centre on a Tuesday and Thursday evenings, sessions focus on fitness, skill development and a modified game at the end.

THE RETURN OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ABIDING BY ALL PROTOCOLS AND HEALTH GUIDANCE OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS, MANY OF THE COMMUNITY PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES EITHER STOPPED OR WERE SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECTED. We are pleased to report that some activities have either returned or are in the final stages of preparation. That said, we will be taking every precaution to keep our staff, participants and the general public as safe as possible. The promotion to the EFL will allow the Community 4

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Foundation to expand its work in the local community and deliver some fantastic programmes. We are thrilled to be part of the new EFL Trust network and thank officers already for their support! Community Activities You may have seen the Community Foundation in the Town Centre (the day before Wembley), just outside Victoria Shopping Centre. This was the first of many community activities planned, we are excited to raise awareness of the Community Foundation and impress that we are more than just a football club.

Town Runners It has to be said that our Run Leader Steve Pattisson has remained a source of motivation for everyone, running daily over the last few months and providing others the motivation to get active. Steve, along with new volunteers have been running socially around the local community. Plus even competed in the Virtual Bradford 10K race! Details of our NEW ‘Town to 5K’ Running Groups will be available very shortly. Targeting those who might be new to running or currently run under a 5K distance.

It is hoped that over the next few months there will be more opportunities to play Walking Football at all levels. Plans for a social session are in the pipeline, along with news hot off the press for a return to competitions in April 2021. PE and School Sport September also brings the return of our local Primary and Secondary Schools coaching. With the Community Foundation delivering high quality PE lessons, inspiring young people and upskilling teachers. Our team of coaches

will be working with partner schools, to ensure PE hasn’t been forgotten during/after the pandemic. Working in schools is a fantastic way for us to generate new fans and inspire young people to take part in sport (and be Harrogate Town AFC fans of course!). If you know a school that would like to work with us please contact us now. We have a number of opportunities that include mascot and player visits! Email community@ harrogatetownafc.com. Harrogate Town AFC Kicks Another programme that we are delivering in the local community is ‘Harrogate Town Kicks’. Looking to target children who may be out and about, with nothing to do – our Kicks sessions provide a fun and enjoyable ‘rock up and play’ football session. In partnership with North Yorkshire Police, it is hoped that by playing football and engaging with coaches, young people may be able to make better life choices. New sessions in the local community will be coming soon. More details available through our social media channels.

Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation has secured the services of Tom Blackburn, joining the team as Community Officer. Since January 2019, Tom has been managing our growing schools programme as well as assisting in a number of other projects. He is going to be a vital part of the team, bringing experience from his time at York City Football Club Foundation and a wealth of coaching experience. “It has been clear over the last few months that Tom is extremely committed and passionate about seeing the Community Foundation grow. It is the right time to expand his role to include a number of community programmes, such as Walking Football, Running Groups, Harrogate Kicks, Heads up Football and the Premier League Primary Stars programme. I have no doubt that Tom will excel in delivering our current programmes and building our volunteer workforce.” Iain Service – Community Manager.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

TOWN IN THE COMMUNITY

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

COVID-19 RESPONSE CLUB AND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE NHS AND THE COMMUNITY... IAIN SERVICE, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

TOWN JOINS FORCES WITH HARROGATE SPRING FOR THIS YEARS ‘GREAT BRITISH SEPTEMBER CLEAN’ Members of the Community Foundation, BTEC Students and 1st Team players joined forces with Harrogate Spring to do their bit for the ‘Great British September Clean’. Carrying out litter picks in the local community.

NEW TRAINEESHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE NOW Harrogate Town AFC CIO have a new traineeship programme focusing on three main work areas: Sports Turf Maintenance, Hospitality/customer service and Stewarding. The traineeship programme will offer young adults between the ages of 19-24 – who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) – the opportunity to enter a free 12-week course to develop their employability skills and gain practical learning experience. Participants will have access to work placements, whilst various workshops will be provided to help the students’ personal development with classes such as CV writing provided in a central Harrogate location. 6

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Traineeships run for 12 weeks, available for those; 4 Between the ages of 19-24 years 4 Who are not currently in education, employment or training. 4 Who might have 2x A Levels or below. Once the programme has been completed trainees can expect a guaranteed reference and an enhanced CV, increasing the potential of employability. For more information please contact Iain Service – Harrogate Town AFC CIO Community Manager on 07465 290222 or email: community@harrogatetownafc.com

The ongoing campaign that is promoted and co-ordinated by ‘Keep Britain Tidy’ assists volunteers, organisations and businesses do their bit to cut litter and improve public places. Working in partnership with Harrogate Spring and Harrogate Borough Council, members of Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, BTEC Students and members of the 1st team squad picked up litter and plastic waste around key public areas in Harrogate.

WALKING FOOTBALLER LAWRIE REPRESENTS ENGLAND After a series of trials and practice matches, Harrogate Town AFC Walking Footballer Lawrie Coulthard received his first England cap, representing 70+ years category. In Lawrie’s words... “I eventually made my England debut on 23rd August 2020 against the Republic of Ireland. It is almost impossible to describe the feeling of pride as one lines up to sing our National Anthem before the game. I’m glad to say I played well and England won 2–0. It was a very emotional moment for me when I heard the final whistle. I dedicated my cap to Sheila, my lovely Irish wife of 45 years, who passed away through ovarian cancer on St Patrick’s Day. Just before she left us, she was delighted to learn that I had been selected to play for my country. Without her selflessness and unbelievable support during her darkest days, I would never have achieved one of the proudest moments of my life!” We will continue to feature updates on Lawrie’s England experiences throughout the season.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING UPDATE As always plenty of positive activities taking place within the Community Foundation. We are really excited for what the next few months will bring. Our Community Strategy 2020-23 and Charity launch will be taking place within the next six weeks – look out for this on all social media channels. Tom Blackburn has also joined the Community Foundation full time as ‘Community Officer’, bringing a wealth of experience to the charity. Welcome Tom! Below are some updates of activities taking place over the last few weeks.

By Katie Macrae, Fundraising Officer While we are unable to offer these things ‘face to face’ at the moment, we still want to offer fans the opportunity to get involved and win some incredible prizes while also raising much needed funds for the Community Foundation.

‘Text to Win’ competition Hopefully you will have seen that we are currently running a ‘text to win’ competition on social media. This is the first of a number of these in the run up to Christmas, so keep your eyes peeled as we have some excellent prizes available. Our first competition ends at midnight on Saturday 17th October with the winner to be announced on Monday 19th October, with a second

SIMON WEAVER AND FIRST TEAM PLAYERS PROVIDE ADVICE AROUND MENTAL HEALTH Mind’s ‘do one thing’ campaign aims to inspire people to make one small change or take one action to look after their mental health. Harrogate Town AFC along with the network of football league clubs joined forced to raise awareness of the importance of mental health. Simon Weaver, Brendan Kiernan and Josh Falkingham provided key messages on social media and spoke with supporters who were in need of a friendly chat and catch up. We were keen to support those who might need help in this tough time. A big thanks to all involved, the feedback was fantastic.

NEW TRAINEESHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE NOW

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

For your chance to win this huge bundle of prizes, simply answer the following question:

Who scored Town’s historic first league goal as an EFL club? A: Jon Stead B: Jack Muldoon

We will soon be listed on the JustGiving charity pages. If you are taking part in any events and would consider fundraising to support the Community Foundation, please get in touch. Our ‘Town to 5K’ running group have already pledged their support by signing up to a number of races in 2021. If you have any ideas of activities or challenges that you would like to take part in then please contact... KatieMacrae@harrogatetownafc.com

Shirt Auction update: Some of you have been in touch recently about the auction we held for Harrogate Hospital and Community Charity in May. Obviously at the time we had no idea that we would still be in this situation all these months later. We know that some of you are still waiting for your shirts to be signed and we are committed to doing this as soon as it is safe to do so. The safety of the players and staff is our number one priority. We will give further updates as and when we can. If you have any immediate questions, please contact... KatieMacrae@harrogatetownafc.com.

C: Joe Cracknell To enter, text the word TOWN followed by your answer A, B, or C to 78866* Prizes for Draw 1 include: Are you young and enthusiastic - why not join our traineeships?

• A £50 Club shop voucher

If you are between the ages of 19-24 and not currently employed or in education you may be able to join us. We have three areas we are looking to support trainees: Groundsmanship, Hospitality, Stewarding.

• A4 Wembley Print

If you need any more information, please contact us via email: community@harrogatetownafc.com

• £10 voucher for Mrs Smith’s café

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 8

competition starting the following day.

JustGiving:

• A magnum of champagne • Promotion Bundle (T-shirt, scarf, Wembley poster, play-off final pendant) • Six Cans of ‘Proud to be Town’ Pilsner • EFL Pin Badge & Keyring • One free meta fit class on Zoom *Entrants must be 18 years old or over. Text costs £3 plus your standard network rate. You can enter a maximum of three times per day, please ensure you have the bill payer’s permission. This competition closes at midnight on 17th October 2020 and the winner will be announced on Monday 19th October once the draw has been made from all of the correct entries

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

OCTOBER ACTIVE CHALLENGE We have asked local primary schools in Harrogate and District to sign up to a special Harrogate Town AFC Community campaign to be as active as possible in the month of October.

The EFL Trust has launched a new partnership with Network Rail and the British Transport Police, (BTP), to help tackle the increasing number of people risking their lives on the railway. We will be part of the project that will raise awareness of the dangers of the railway network. New figures released reveal over 250 incidents a week have been recorded by people taking risks on the railway – taking short-cuts, capturing photos and even ‘train surfing’ – sometimes with tragic consequences. Hundreds of people each year unintentionally take on the railway and lose. The railway’s full of hidden dangers. If you’re not hit by an unexpected train you’ll be hit by the lethal current in rails and power lines. You will be killed or left with catastrophic, life-changing injuries. And your friends and family will be left with the brutal consequences. Everyone loses when you underestimate this opponent. Everyone loses when you step on the track.

With some children returning back to school after a long period away from the classroom we wanted to focus on encouraging young people to be as active as possible, walking to school (where possible), keeping moving in break times and being busy at home. The aim is for us to find the ‘Most Active class in Harrogate’. We have had dozens of classes enter. All children will get the chance to boost their activity hours over half term. Upon the return to school, after totals are submitted, the winning class will be announced and presented with HTAFC goodie bags and visit from a Harrogate Town first team player and Harry Gator! A huge GOOD LUCK to everyone involved and well done!

During the school holidays, Harrogate Town AFC want our fans, friends and families to stay safe by staying off the tracks. #YouVsTrain For more details visit www.youvtrain.co.uk

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 10

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

COMMUNITY DROP IN SESSIONS LOOKING TO COMBAT ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR You may have seen some sessions in the local community over the last few months, next to the Hydro and also in Woodfield Ward. The special sessions were football themed and worked with local youths who might have been bored or disengaged. The Harrogate Kicks programme has been made possible following funding from North Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioners. Harrogate Town AFC Community coaches will be working alongside neighbourhood Police and other organisations to deliver community based, fun, football sessions to combat anti-social behaviour. Ideally participants will be found close to the session location, perhaps already playing or hanging around outside.

Fundraising Assistance We will soon be listed on the JustGiving charity pages, if you are taking part in any events and would consider fundraising to support the community foundation, please get in touch with KatieMacrae@harrogatetownafc.com for further information. Our ‘Town to 5K’ running group have already pledged their support by signing up to a number of races in 2021. If you have any ideas of activities or challenges that you would like to take part in then please get in touch.

HALF TERM

POP-UP FOOTBALL Over the half term period we have linked up with Inspire Youth for a special collaboration. Utilising their expertise and providing some free pop up Harrogate Kicks games and activities.

Monday 26th October / 3-5pm

Wednesday 28th October / 3-5pm

Knaresborough Community Centre Stockwell Avenue, Knaresborough HG5 0LG

Belmont Park High Street, Starbeck HG2 7JE

Inspire Youth offer a variety of opportunities and projects for young people mainly aged 11-18 to get involved with. Working closely with North Yorkshire Police, HBC Safer Communities Hub, NYCC and other smaller agencies to ensure they are up to date with issues and needs in the Harrogate area. Inspire Youth are currently delivering Covid safe community-based projects from a mobile youth base which is a recently established versatile space on wheels offering various activities including a TV, console, outdoor activity and sports with weekly issue-based discussions and activities and refreshments. During term time, sessions take place in Knaresborough (outside the community Centre 6-8pm on Mondays) and Starbeck (next to Belmont Field on Wednesdays 6.30-8pm on Wednesdays) with sessions being free and outdoors. A new programme is due to take place in secondary schools called ‘Take Control’, looking to support young people at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, risk taking or nuisance behaviours to support them to make more informed positive choices. Inspire Youth are always looking for further opportunities to bring positive activities to the lives of young people in their communities (within the Harrogate District) to support their transition into adulthood. HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

COMMUNITY FUTSAL SESSIONS

HALF TERM COMMUNITY DROP IN SESSIONS A GREAT SUCCESS The Community Drop in sessions looking to combat antisocial behaviour over half term were a great success. The two projects engaged more than 30 young people in football challenges, games and a chance to play as Harrogate Town AFC on Fifa 21!

What is the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation? • An official charity that is supported via donations, fundraising activities and delivery of funded projects (such as Premier League Primary Stars and other EFL Trust programmes). • HTAFC and HTAFC Community Foundation are linked but are separate entities. Both organisations work together, but have a different organisational structure and strategy. • If you see the Community logo attached to any programme or project, the Community Foundation are managing all aspects and will answer any questions. • If you see the club logo, HTAFC will be able to assist and answer any associated questions. • The Community Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees, with Community Manager Iain Service and Community Officer Tom Blackburn the only employees. There are a number of casual coaches that support local delivery, as well as a group of fantastic volunteers. • The HTAFC Community Foundation has its own Twitter account (@HTAFCCF) where the latest activities and updates can be found. There is also an independent website that outlines programmes in a little more detail: htafcinthecommunity.co.uk

Community Futsal is not an alternative to Harrogate Town AFC’s excellent Player Development Centre that continues to work with young players but instead a separate session organised and delivered by the Community Foundation.

What is Futsal? • Played indoors all year round • 5-a-side with a smaller futsal ball • Different rules from football, with foul counts and timing being stopped when the ball is out of play • Futsal is a popular sport in Europe, with Barcelona recently winning the European title • Play is fast, with different skills and techniques needed • There are four main positions, goalie, defender, winger and pivot All sessions are delivered during term time on Wednesdays at Harrogate High School (Sports Hall), Ainsty Road, Harrogate, HG1 4AP. Payment in advance for a block, all sessions will be following government health guidelines. Start times are as follows;

U8/9s: 4.30-5.25pm U10/11s : 5.35-6.30pm There are limited spaces available for each sessions. Boys and girls are welcome, along with any level of ability.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 12

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The Harrogate Kicks programme has been made possible following funding from North Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioners. Working alongside neighbourhood Policing teams and a local organisation called Inspire Youth. Watch out for more sessions in holiday times very soon.

For any queries, please email Community Officer, Tom Blackburn tomblackburn@harrogatetownafc.com or call 07832 323324

Resurrected Bites Food Bank needs community help! Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation are delighted to help support Resurrected Bites and assist with the current food crisis affecting hundreds of local families.

They currently need: • Breakfast Cereal • Tins of Soup • Baked beans • Tinned Veg • Cooking Sauces • Tinned pulses • Tinned Meat • Tinned Fish • Pet food/cat litter • Sanitary towels/ incontinence pads

• Shower gel/soap • Nappies • Men’s deodorant • Shampoo • Cleaning products /washing up liquid • Milk - UHT & fresh • Dairy products • Meat and vegetarian protein

Drop Off Points

SOME OF THE YOUNG PEOPLE WHO JOINED US FOR FOOTBALL CHALLENGES IN KNARESBOROUGH ALONGSIDE JESSICA WARD FROM INSPIRE YOUTH AND THEIR SUPER KITTED OUT VAN!

ANNOUNCING OUR FIRST WINNERS

We are delighted to announce the winner of our first ‘Text to Win’ competition was Steve Farnworth who knew that Jack Muldoon scored Town’s historic first league goal as an EFL club. Steve and his family came to the ground to collect their prizes and were delighted with their win. Our second competition has now closed and the winner has been contacted. Keep an eye on our Facebook pages for the winner announcement and the details of our third competition - we have many more great prizes available for you to win.

KNARESBOROUGH Gracious St Methodist Church. Tue to Fri (9am-1pm). Please bring items to the room at the top of the ramp. BILTON The Vicarage, Bilton Lane, Harrogate, HG1 3DT (next to St John’s Church). Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Drop ambient in box outside. NO chilled or frozen please. STARBECK The Vicarage 51 Bogs Lane, Starbeck HG1 4EB. Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Please knock if you have chilled or frozen. CLARO ROAD HTAFC Community Foundation Unit 24 Claro Court Business Centre, Claro Road, Harrogate, HG1 4BA (near the Royal Mail Sorting Office) Mon to Fri (9am-5pm). Note: Please do not donate if it has exceeded its use by date (fresh items). Please only donate if your household is free of infection.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

THE OCTOBER ACTIVE CHALLENGE RESULTS ARE IN... The 2020 Challenge had a total of 22 classes taking part, with over 370 pupils taking part during October.

DAYS OF CHRISTMAS From the 1st to the 25th December (in conjunction with Harrogate Town AFC), we will be launching our ’25 Days of Christmas’ promotion. This is great news for Town fans and a chance to learn about the work that the Community Foundation is undertaking, whilst building up to the big day!

The aim of the challenge was to find the most active class in Harrogate, motivating children and whole classes to be more active during the COVID pandemic. We were amazed at the effort on show from every class, receiving messages from teachers saying how this challenge has motivated classes to improve their active time everyday, helping with their adding up in maths too. Congratulations to Foxes Class from Oatlands Junior School who scored a whopping 162,082 minutes over the course of October – our winners! The class got a special video message from Harrogate Town AFC player Lloyd Kerry and will receive Harrogate Town goodie bags to reward their achievement.

Tom has recently joined the Community Foundation as a full-time Community Officer. With his main day to day tasks including: Co-ordination of the Premier League Primary Stars Programme (delivering high quality PE to young people), managing the Foundation’s ‘Active Programme’ including Walking Football, Running Groups and Reminiscence sessions. In addition Tom is assisting Iain Service on growing the Community Foundation and exploring new ways in which we can meet our Charitable Objectives.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 14

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

• Acts of kindness – showing how we are giving back to those in need

• Breakfast Cereal • Tins of Soup • Baked beans • Tinned Veg • Cooking Sauces • Tinned pulses • Tinned Meat • Tinned Fish • Pet food/cat litter • Sanitary towels/ incontinence pads

• Shower gel/soap • Nappies • Men’s deodorant • Shampoo • Cleaning products /washing up liquid • Milk - UHT & fresh • Dairy products • Meat and vegetarian protein

BILTON The Vicarage, Bilton Lane, Harrogate, HG1 3DT (next to St John’s Church). Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Drop ambient in box outside. NO chilled or frozen please.

• Special player content • Competitions, offers and prize giveaways

This is a big step for the Community Foundation and one that we are extremely excited about.

If you can give anything at all, it would be greatly appreciated. Resurrected Bites

KNARESBOROUGH Gracious St Methodist Church. Tue to Fri (9am-1pm). Please bring items to the room at the top of the ramp.

• Community programmes (showcasing the difference we are making locally)

Alongside the ’25 Days of Christmas’ we will be launching ‘Harrogate Town AFC CIO’ as an officially registered charity and sharing our Community aims and objectives.

In our last programme we raised awareness of our local food bank in desperate need. With lockdown upon us, this need is heightened.

Drop Off Points

For each of the 25 days there will be a focus on;

MEET TOM BLACKBURN COMMUNITY OFFICER

Resurrected Bites Food Bank needs community help!

FIRST TRAINEESHIP STARTING SOON

Are you young and enthusiastic - why not join our traineeships? We are very close to starting our first Traineeship. We are looking for a couple more individuals to join us. If you are between the ages of 19-24 and not currently employed or in education you may be able to join us. We have three areas we are looking to support trainees: Groundsmanship, Hospitality, Stewarding. If you need any more information, please contact us via email: community@harrogatetownafc.com

STARBECK The Vicarage 51 Bogs Lane, Starbeck HG1 4EB. Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Please knock if you have chilled or frozen. CLARO ROAD HTAFC Community Foundation Unit 24 Claro Court Business Centre, Claro Road, Harrogate, HG1 4BA (near the Royal Mail Sorting Office) Mon to Fri (9am-5pm). Note: Please do not donate if it has exceeded its use by date (fresh items). Please only donate if your household is free of infection.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The Community Foundation is gearing up for 25 ‘special’ days of Christmas... It is nearly the festive period and a time for kindness and giving. Working closely with HTAFC, the Community Foundation are undertaking a special ‘25 Days of Christmas’ campaign. Over the 25 days we will be showcasing what fantastic work the Club and the Community Foundation undertake, as well as releasing unique content and prize giveaways. Alongside this we will highlight some local charities and distribute care packages and parcels to those in need. The following groups will be beneficiaries of our ’25 Days of Christmas’ campaign; • Harrogate Homeless Project • Resurrected Bites, Food Bank • Harrogate Hospital • Local Care Facilities • Disability Action Yorkshire • Individuals that live in supportive housing This will be a Club and Community effort, with first team players already showing their support to the campaign. With fans and supporters also able to contribute.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

Help our ‘25 Days of Christmas’ campaign... We want to make Christmas a fun time for everyone involved. No matter what your circumstances. Why not help put a smile on someone’s face this Christmas. The items below have been requested by our beneficiaries; • Harry Potter themed toys/crafts/items • Lego • Fortnite • Dolls • Clothes • Pokemon • Books Food and household items: • Breakfast Cereal • Tins of Soup • Baked beans • Tinned Veg • Cooking Sauces • Tinned pulses • Tinned Meat and Fish

• Sanitary towels • Nappies • Men’s deodorant • Cleaning products • Biscuits • Selection boxes • Anything Christmas related

Drop Off Points KNARESBOROUGH Gracious St Methodist Church. Tue to Fri (9am-1pm). Please bring items to the room at the top of the ramp. BILTON The Vicarage, Bilton Lane, Harrogate, HG1 3DT (next to St John’s Church). Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Drop ambient in box outside. NO chilled/frozen please. STARBECK The Vicarage 51 Bogs Lane, Starbeck HG1 4EB. Mon to Thu (9am-1pm & 6-7pm); Sat (9am-12pm). Please knock if you have chilled or frozen. CLARO ROAD HTAFC Community Foundation Unit 24 Claro Court Business Centre, Claro Road, Harrogate, HG1 4BA (nr Royal Mail Sorting) Mon to Fri (9am-5pm).

Full Circle Funerals are providing gratuity bags to say a big thank you to workers in some sectors. Care homes and charities were asked to nominate staff who they felt deserved a special thank you for their hard work and each of these people will receive a bag full of gifts donated by local businesses plus a complimentary Town Matchday Programme.

in partnership with

in partnership

in partnership with

Note: Please do not donate if it has exceeded its use by date (fresh items). Please only donate if your household is free of infection.

Everyone associated with the Club and the Community Foundation would like to express their gratitude for all those who have been working so hard over the last few weeks and months in difficult circumstances. Individuals working in the care sector, local hospitals and key workers have regularly put others first and continue to do so.

with

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

CHARITY LAUNCH Kickstart Placements Opportunities Through our partnership with the EFL Trust and the latest Government Employment incentive, the Community Foundation are luckily to be providing five Kickstart opportunities. These six month placements of 25 hours a week will be available for those who are currently on Universal Credit, between the ages of 16-24 years and at risk of long term unemployment. The positions available in December are as follows;

Harrogate Town AFC is proud to be supporting Stonewall’s Annual Rainbow Laces campaign between Wednesday 9th and Sunday 13th December. Alongside the Premier League and all English Football League clubs, Harrogate Town AFC will continue to celebrate LGBT inclusion and make it clear that football is for everyone. Robbie de Santos, Director of Sport, Stonewall said: “The Premier League and EFL continues to lead the way with their commitment to making football inclusive and welcoming. The visible support from the Premier League & EFL Clubs for Rainbow Laces is a huge part of the change in attitudes we’re seeing. “Our work together is about long-term change to build acceptance and support for LGBT people in football and make sport everyone’s game.” Look out for Josh Falkingham’s armband and other Rainbow coloured items on show at the match today.

• Community Foundation Marketing Assistant (x2) • Community Sports Coach (x2) We are thrilled to be launching the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation charity this month, linking with the fantastic ’25 Days of Christmas’ project. Alongside the launch will be a brand new ‘Community Strategy 2020-2023’ that will outline the work areas that we will focus on.

• Office Admin Assistant These positions are available through the Job Centre, then applicants will contact Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation to apply.

The Community Strategy focuses on three long term outcomes, which will determine each and every activity that the Foundation undertakes.

Women & Girls IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELLBEING

DEVELOPING STRONGER, SAFER AND MORE ACTIVE COMMUNITIES

Over the next three years the charity will work alongside the Club and local partners to ensure that we are making a positive difference. Being a non-profit organisation, all money raised will be used to meet our objectives. You are able to see the strategy and our brand new charity website at www.htafccommunity.co.uk 18

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Harrogate Town Girls Player Development Centre (PDC) offers a range of fantastic football sessions for girls of all abilities. Our Girls PDC is open to girls aged between 7-16 years of age and offers the opportunity to access additional high-quality coaching and support, relevant to their development stage.

ENHANCING LIFE OPPORTUNITIES For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

Our style of Coaching is developed to provide players with the platform to be taught all the fundamental aspects of the game, without detracting from our main priority of fun and enjoyment. We create a safe, open and positive learning environment for our young players which enables players to become active learners, allowing them ownership of their own problem solving and decision-making processes. Harrogate Town AFC Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, All our coaches are FA insured, DBS checked and trained in child protection and Emergency First Aid. For more information, visit www.harrogatetownafc.com HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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Kickstart Placement Opportunities Available (December & January)

Through our partnership with the EFL Trust and the latest Government Employment incentive, the Community Foundation are providing 4x Kickstart opportunities. These six month placements, 25x hours a week will be available for those who are currently on Universal Credit, between the ages of 16-24 years and at risk of long term unemployment.

Last week Graham Wilson joined Tom at The Envirovent Stadium to tell us about his Marathon Man Challenge. The 120 marathons will cover eight countries, three isles covering a distance of 3180 miles, or to put that into context will be the equivalent of walking from Leeds to New York City. The marathons will take in the 48 English counties, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal plus Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man as well as a marathon that has to be completed on a ferry during a 24 hour sailing! We will post the video on our social media channels shortly. If you don’t know anything about his challenge – visit https://120marathonman.org/ to learn how he will work towards a mammoth 120 marathons in 120 days.

The positions available in December are as follows;

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

The winner of our Christmas card design competition is 9 year old Elijah Stewart, with a fantastic and fun take on Christmas with some of our players surrounded by festive objects and decorations! Elijah has received printed copies of his card. They are available to order from the club shop.

Christmas Jumper Day!

We had that festive feeling on Friday 11th December, with club staff donning their Christmas Jumpers. Hopefully these will get another wear or two this year!

• Community Foundation Marketing Assistant (x2) • Community Sports Coach (x1) • Office Admin Assistant (x1) These positions are available through the Job Centre, then applicants will contact Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation to formally apply. If you need any further information, please contact us via email: community@ harrogatetownafc.com

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

‘Design a Christmas Card’ Winner Announced

Town Flag Design

We want you to design us a new flag for The Envirovent Stadium. Visit our website to find a template and get your designs submitted! The winning design will be announced on Wednesday 23rd December, then proudly displayed at all our home games. For more information, please visit www.harrogatetownafc.com HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

OVER THE LAST 2 MONTHS there has been a massive effort by players, staff, volunteers and the local community backing our ‘25 Days of Christmas’ campaign. Tom Blackburn (Community Officer), and the marketing team have worked tirelessly to make it all happen. Highlights of the campaign included; • Donations to those in supported housing and the Harrogate Homeless Project • Food donations to the local food bank • Activity packs given to local care homes • Sports Equipment delivered to local groups • Competitions and challenges encouraging people to be active

EFL in partnership with Mind

Alongside these kind acts it is worth reminding everyone of the amazing efforts undertaken over the last year. The 2019/20 shirt auction for one, raised a huge £6,161 for Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity. A big thank you to all that contributed to this great cause.

The EFL and all 72 Clubs are launching a new campaign called Team Talk that encourages supporters to talk. We know this year has been incredibly difficult for so many people. With football behind closed doors many supporters have felt isolated and have missed the socialising or the release that football brings. Mind’s latest research reveals that more than 60% of adults and over two thirds of young people (68%) felt their mental health deteriorated during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown.

And the Winner is...

One of our last competitions within the ‘25 Days of Christmas Campaign’ was to design a Harrogate Town flag. Entries came in thick and fast from all areas of the community. Bailey aged 9, who attends Saltergate Primary School was the winner, congratulations! The flag will be created and put up at the EnviroVent Stadium very soon. 22

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Harrogate Town AFC and the Community Foundation will be coordinating a number of activities during January that encourages people to talk. One of which the first ever Harrogate Town AFC #TeamTalk. Stay connected and in touch for details of our first Team Talk and other activities.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

Kickstart Placements still Available Through our partnership with the EFL Trust and the latest Government Employment incentive, the Community Foundation are providing 3x Kickstart opportunities. These six month placements, 25x hours a week will be available for those who are currently on Universal Credit, between the ages of 16-24 years and at risk of long term unemployment. The positions available in December are as follows; • Community Foundation Marketing Assistant (x1) • Community Sports Coach (x1) • Office Admin Assistant (x1) These positions are available through the Job Centre, then applicants will contact Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation to formally apply. If you need any further information, please contact us via email: community@harrogatetownafc.com

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

33 23

About the Fiv About the Fiv

Harrogate Town to launch their first ever #TeamTalk session In conjunction with the EFL and Mind, our clubs first #TeamTalk session will be taking place on Thursday 28th January, 7pm on Zoom. Sign up by emailing community@harrogatetownafc.com.

Mental Health is a top priority for everyone We know this year has been incredibly difficult for so many people, with football behind closed doors many supporters have felt isolated and have missed the socialising or the release that football brings Mind’s latest research reveals that more than 60% of adults and over two thirds of young people (68%) felt their mental health deteriorated during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown. Encouraging conversations around our own mental health and that of others has never been more important. Now more than ever, it’s important to stay connected, to reach out or to provide a listening ear. We want you to know that the EFL, Clubs and Mind are here for you. We are on your side.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

‘Get It Off Your Chest: Men’s mental health 10 years on’ Three of the findings...

• Two in five men (43%) admit to regularly feeling worried or low, an increase from 37% in 2009

The whole purpose is to urge supporters to talk and stay connected throughout January and keep the conversation around mental health going. New research into men’s mental health suggests that, while some progress has been made, men feel worried or low more regularly than ten years ago and are consequently twice as likely to feel suicidal. To help keep supporters connected our session will informally bring fans together virtually on Zoom to talk about football – helping them stay connected during what can be a difficult time of year for many. Along with connecting online, there is also opportunity to dial into the call using your landline or mobile phone. Please contact us on 07465 290222 or email: community@ harrogatetownafc.com if you need any help in getting set up.

• The number of men who have suicidal thoughts when feeling worried or low has doubled to 10% since 2009 • Men are now almost three times more likely to see a therapist when worried or low than in 2009 For more information on the EFL and Mind’s charity partnership please visit https://www.efl.com/

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

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Individuals who report a greater interest in helping others are more likely to rate themselves as happy. Research into actions for promoting happiness has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period is associated with an increase in well-being. HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Harrogate Town AFC’s first ever #TeamTalk a huge success

Employability is the word for the Community Foundation It is a very exciting time within the Foundation with the opportunity to deliver Traineeships and the new Government incentivised Kickstart programme. The traineeships are being delivered in three main areas: Groundsmanship, Hospitality/Customer Service and Stewarding. With people between the ages of 19-24 undertaking work placements, learning new skills and increasing their employment prospects. You may have seen one of our trainees tending to the pitch at our last home match against Exeter City.

Kickstart Programme Update Many of you may have heard of the Kickstart programme that is aimed at those who are between the ages of 16-24 years old, unemployed and at risk of long term unemployment. Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, through their partnership with the EFL Trust have managed to acquire 5x Kickstart places to undertake much needed tasks within the club and the charity.

Our first session welcomed Phil Priestley to talk about his experiences in life, health and football. There were some fantastic stories and engagement from all that took part. We will have another special guest for our next #TeamTalk on Thursday 25th February 2021. Delivered on Zoom – please email community@harrogatetownafc.com to join.

Premier League Primary Stars Delivery

Henry Whitaker who has joined the club as Media Assistant through the Kickstart opportunity was in fact the first EFL Trust Kickstart placement in the country! Welcome Henry.

With the current lockdown and limiting opportunities to access schools physically to deliver the Premier League Primary Stars programme, our lessons have gone online!

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

It is with great delight that we are now confirmed as the delivery partners of NCS within Harrogate and District. Working closely with the NCS Trust and EFL Trust, we will be presenting the opportunity to all high schools for those between the ages of 16-17 years to take part. Founded on the principles of social cohesion, social engagement and social mobility, NCS aims to make a life-changing difference to young people and how they approach life after school (something that can be daunting for even the most confident teens). In just a few weeks, they’ll mix with new people from different backgrounds, conquer big challenges, pick up some invaluable skills and get the confidence they need to live independently. Recruitment events will take place directly within schools, over the next few weeks.

We are still recruiting roles in Media, Sports Coaching and Office Administration. Please email community@harrogatetownafc.com for more details.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 26

We are really happy to be raising awareness of mental health through our #TeamTalk sessions – in partnership with the EFL Trust and MIND. The whole purpose is to urge supporters to talk and stay connected and keep the conversation around mental health going.

National Citizen Service (NCS) now delivered by Community Foundation

Steve Pattison, also our Community Run Leader, has been delivering Friday morning Live Workouts to our partner schools. Both school classes and those who are being homeschooled can take part. We are planning other Community Workout sessions that will be available to watch at your leisure.

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Sporting Memories - New reminiscence sessions going online A special programme looking to talk about memories of sport, history and reminiscence is now starting up again online. In conjunction with the Sporting Memories Network, volunteers facilitate a fun and social chat amongst members.

Town players do their bit contacting fans...

We are looking to take our Sporting Memories sessions online via Zoom every two weeks. If you would like to get involved in our Sporting Memories Zoom session, or even just join via phone – please email: community@harrogatetownafc. com or call: 07465-290222

Over the month of January we set players and staff a task to call up some of our supporters and see how they were getting on. We understand the challenges being faced at the moment away from football and feel that as a Club and Community Foundation that we have a role to play. These conversations weren’t off a script, just a chance to hear a friendly Harrogate Town AFC voice. As challenges continue for everyone in society we will look at more ways to keep the connection with supporters who might be feeling isolated in 2021.

Harrogate Town AFC’s #TeamTalk reminder Just a reminder that our next Team Talk (in partnership with the EFL and Mind) will be taking place on Zoom, 7pm on Thursday 25th February 2021. We are busy booking in our next special guest, if you want join, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com to book a place. The whole purpose is to urge supporters to talk and stay connected and keep the conversation going around mental health. We will feature ways to overcome the challenges we face and how we can increase our mental health.

To make our sessions interesting we often bring sporting memorabilia and tell the story about these items. We have also asked a number of First Team players to record football and sporting memories they have watched or witnessed as a child. Some brilliant memories include;

National Citizen Service (NCS) growth As previously mentioned, we are thrilled to be delivery partners for the Harrogate region for NCS. This is a huge opportunity for the Community Foundation to grow and a chance for the Harrogate Town AFC brand to be seen across the area. Founded on the principles of social cohesion, social engagement and social mobility, NCS aims to make a life-changing difference to young people and how they approach life after school (something that can be daunting for even the most confident teens). We are currently recruiting for an experienced NCS Manager to help us delivery a phenomenal NCS Programme. Iain Service explains, ‘The new role is absolutely key to establishing ourselves as an outstanding delivery partner for NCS in the local area. Made possible by the EFL Trust, this role allows us to grow as a Foundation and add fantatsic experience to our team’. Recruitment is underway, with more details found on our website at www.htafcinthecommunity.co.uk

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

• That Aguero moment, absolute scenes • Chelsea Kings of Europe • Aston Villa, Sunderland and Wembley Experiences • Undercover French fans • Experience of live football for the first time • Super Bowl Fever • Baseball in the States • Usain Bolt Olympic record breaking heroics

Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation link with the EFL Trust and Ferrero to get families active! Given the times we’re currently in, we know that children are unlikely to get to have fun at their sports day this year, so we are looking to make resources available to schools and families linking to a special Joy of Moving Home School Festival! The EFL Trust have developed lots of games and activities for you and your kids to try out for an afternoon of fun – right from your own homes! All the games and activities have been created to help get your child active while they are playing and help to boost your child’s development and learning. The Community Foundation team have recently communicated with all local schools about the programme, with details to follow. Over 760 schools across the UK take part in the Joy of Moving programme and this is now your chance to join in at home. To find out more about the Joy of Moving, check out the website now at www.joyofmovingresourcehub.co.uk

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, to participate, volunteer or to get involved, please email community harrogatetownafc.com HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Community Programmes during Lockdown HTAFC Community Foundation link with the EFL Trust and Ferrero to get families active! The EFL Trust have developed lots of games and activities for you and your kids to try out for an afternoon of fun – right from your own homes! All the games and activities have been created to help get your child active while they are playing and help to boost your child’s development and learning.

Our Walking Footballers have been busy planning Zoom meetings and getting prepared for a return to play (eventually)!

The Winter Games, which follows the successful Joy of Moving Home School Festivals in the summer of 2020, will take the form of a Winter Adventure with an exciting selection of games and activities that you and your children can play along the way. To find out more about the Joy of Moving, check out the website now at joyofmovingresourcehub.co.uk

Why not take up the Town Runners February Challenge? Being active is really important during the lockdown. Town Runners have been creative this February, with Run Leaders Steve Pattison and Debbie Clark setting runners a February challenge. The engagement and enthusiasm has been amazing. With all runners doing what they can, and reaping the benefits. Why not try this out? Or set your own goals to achieve. If you want more details about how our Running Group is continuing to motivate people to become active – please email community@harrogatetownafc.com 30

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

February #TeamTalk welcomes special guest Jon Stead

Lockdown has encouraged staff and volunteers to embrace technology and to be innovative.

Run a 5K

End of the day run

Run the same route but try for a quicker time

Gain a Strava achievement (Gold or Silver)

Running streak (three runs in a week)

Run which takes you past the EnviroVent Stadium

Complete a run up a hill

Run a total distance of 10k in a week

Run the same route in reverse

Scenic 5K run

Run with a partner (2 or 4 legs!)

Post run coffee at LMDC

Take a mid-run selfie

Around the Town Centre run

Take an early morning run

Only one challenge to be completed at a time

Our next Team Talk (in partnership with the EFL and Mind) will be taking place on Zoom, 7pm on Thursday 25th February. It is confirmed – Jon Stead is our special guest. We are excited to learn from Jon about his experiences within football and some of the ways in which he has overcome challenges. The TeamTalk will include a Q+A session, along with some interactive elements. The whole purpose is to urge supporters to stay connected and keep the conversation going around mental health.

Sporting Memories talks have been taking place via Zoom too, encouraging members to share experiences from their past.

To book a place on our February #TeamTalk, email community@harrogatetownafc.com now to receive the Zoom link.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

February’s #TeamTalk with Jon Stead a huge success There was another great attendance at our monthly #TeamTalk in partnership with MIND and the EFL Trust, Thursday week. Our special guest was Jon Stead who shared some great stories about key points within his professional career. There was also a fun quiz and a chance to talk through some of the challenges we are al facing during lockdown. Our next Team Talk will be taking place on Zoom, 7pm on Thursday 25th March. The whole purpose is to urge supporters to stay connected and keep the conversation going around mental health. To book a place on our March #TeamTalk, email community@harrogatetownafc. com now to receive the Zoom link. We will be announcing a special guest nearer to the time.

Bailey’s winning design ready to be made in to a real flag! As part of our ‘25 Days of Christmas’ campaign in 2020 we set a competition – to design a flag to be displayed at The EnviroVent Stadium. The winner Bailey aged 9, can be very proud of his design. We are in the process of sending the design off to be made into a real flag. We might even get the real Harry Gator to pose next to it! 32

HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Tom Blackburn

Community Officer Tom Blackburn is a key part of our Community Team. But what makes him tick? Where did you work before Harrogate Town AFC? I worked at York City FC Foundation as a Community Coach, going in to schools delivering sessions and getting involved in Futsal, Sporting Memories and Matchday. Your role has got bigger since starting with HTAFC Community Foundation in January 2019. How have you found this? Great! The way that my role has grown has really helped with my development and confidence. There have been challenges along the way, but all of them have helped me expand my knowledge. The way the Foundation is growing week by week is so exciting! What would you like to achieve, working within the Community Foundation? The expansion and development of the Foundation is something that I am passionate about. I would like to be known for someone who can co-ordinate a range of programmes that inspire local people to be healthy and reach their potential. If you weren’t a Community Officer what would you be? I would like to be a Professional Futsal player, failing that just working in Sport! Possibly Sports Psychology or a job where I can help people improve their performance. Do you have any hobbies outside of work/football? I enjoy to keep fit, run and play some golf (when the weather allows).

What is your favourite food? I am a big fan of Thai cuisine, in particular a Massaman curry. What is your faviourite TV show or movie? Pulp Fiction is my favourite, or anything directed by Quentin Tarantino. You cant beat a bit of Match of the Day. What advice would you give to people during this tough time? Stay active, whether that is physically or maybe doing a wordsearch or suduko. Try and learn new things and make sure you stay connected with friends and family. Hopefully the future will allow us to travel or check off a few items on our bucket lists! Do you have any plans or thoughts about what you might want to do? Japan, New Zealand and South America are on my lists of places to visit and experience the culture. I also want to sky dive (if possible over the Palm Tree Islands) in Dubai.

For more details about Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, or to get involved as a participant or volunteer, please email community@harrogatetownafc.com HTAFC COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

For more information about the foundation or to get involved please email community@harrogatetownafc.com

www.htafccommunity.co.uk Harrogate Town AFC CIO is a registered charity No. 1186826