Founding - Sophie Bartup (Barton Inclusive FC)

Sophie Bartup is the founder and chair of Barton Inclusive FC, a football club built entirely around inclusion, opportunity, and community. Since launching the club in 2019, Sophie has created a safe, thriving space where over 400 players — many with additional needs — are supported by more than 60 dedicated volunteers. Her passion for inclusion is clear in everything she does, from coaching adult disability teams to designing a youth leadership pathway that empowers young players with disabilities to become confident, capable coaches.

Sophie’s leadership is both strategic and deeply personal. She has transformed what began as a grassroots project into a structured, sustainable club that delivers far more than football. Barton Inclusive FC connects players and families to housing, education, mental health support, and social networks — ensuring no one is left behind. Sophie takes the time to understand every individual’s story, creating a culture where people feel seen, valued, and uplifted.

Her volunteer commitment is exceptional. Since May 2024 alone, she has given over 300 hours to mentoring, planning, and building lasting partnerships. Her efforts have been recognised through multiple awards, including Disability Sport Yorkshire’s Club of the Year. Yet Sophie remains humble, focused not on accolades, but on the everyday impact — the confidence gained, friendships formed, and lives changed through the club’s work.

Sophie’s ethos — “We are more than football” — is reflected in every part of the club she’s built. Her vision and compassion have created a community lifeline that offers not just sport, but belonging, purpose, and hope. Barton Inclusive FC is what it is because of Sophie, and her impact will be felt for years to come.

With thanks to event partners HEY Smile Foundation, Hull CVS, City Health Care Partnership (CHCP), East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull City Council