19/07/2026
KIDOF (Kick Type 2 Diabetes Out Football): Preventing Type 2 Diabetes and Promoting Mental Wellbeing Through Community Football
On Saturday, 18 July 2026, Global Diabetes Initiatives (GDI) proudly hosted the KIDOF (Kick Type 2 Diabetes Out Football) Grand Final, celebrating the successful completion of a six-month community programme that demonstrated how football can be used as an effective public health intervention to prevent Type 2 diabetes, promote mental wellbeing, reduce health inequalities, and strengthen communities.
Supported by Sport England, KIDOF was developed in response to the growing burden of Type 2 diabetes and the increasing need to improve mental wellbeing through accessible, community-based physical activity. The programme has shown that football is far more than a sport—it is a powerful tool for improving health, building resilience, and creating lasting social connections.
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Through Community Football
Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and to support those already living with the condition.
Over six months, participants engaged in weekly football sessions that encouraged regular exercise, improved cardiovascular fitness, supported healthy weight management, and promoted healthier lifestyle choices. Alongside the football programme, participants received health promotion messages that reinforced the importance of physical activity, healthy eating, and long-term disease prevention.
KIDOF empowered participants to take greater responsibility for their health while demonstrating how community sport can contribute to preventing chronic diseases.
Promoting Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing has been at the heart of the KIDOF programme.
Participants consistently described the weekly football sessions as a positive outlet that helped reduce stress, improve mood, build confidence, combat loneliness, and strengthen their sense of belonging. The football pitch became more than a place to play—it became a safe, welcoming environment where friendships were formed, encouragement was shared, and communities came together.
For many participants, KIDOF became an important part of their weekly routine, providing structure, motivation, and social connection that positively influenced their overall wellbeing.
More Than a Football Tournament
KIDOF brought together ten community teams over six months, creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds to participate in regular physical activity while building teamwork, respect, leadership, and community cohesion.
The Grand Final celebrated not only sporting excellence but also the remarkable commitment shown by players, team leaders, volunteers, referees, supporters, and partner organisations who contributed to the success of the programme.
One message echoed throughout the day: "We don't want KIDOF to end." This powerful reflection demonstrates the meaningful impact the programme has had on the lives of participants and their communities.
Impact on Individuals
KIDOF has empowered individuals to make lasting improvements to their health and wellbeing. Through regular participation, players increased their physical activity, improved their fitness, developed healthier lifestyles, and gained a better understanding of how exercise can help prevent Type 2 diabetes.
The programme also had a significant impact on mental wellbeing. Participants reported feeling happier, less isolated, more confident, and more motivated. Many developed new friendships, strengthened their self-esteem, and found a supportive environment that positively influenced their emotional health. For many, KIDOF became more than a weekly football session—it became a pathway to healthier living and improved quality of life.
Impact on the Community
KIDOF has strengthened community cohesion by bringing together people from different backgrounds through the shared values of teamwork, inclusion, respect, and healthy living. The programme created opportunities for families, friends, volunteers, and supporters to engage in positive community activities while encouraging healthier behaviours across the wider population.
The relationships built throughout the tournament have helped reduce social isolation, strengthen community networks, and create a greater sense of belonging. Team leaders played a crucial role in motivating participants and fostering an environment where everyone felt welcomed, valued, and supported.
Impact on Public Health
KIDOF demonstrates how community football can be an effective and sustainable public health intervention. By increasing physical activity, promoting healthier lifestyles, and improving mental wellbeing, the programme contributes directly to the prevention of Type 2 diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
The project supports key public health priorities by reducing physical inactivity, tackling health inequalities, improving emotional wellbeing, encouraging disease prevention, and strengthening community resilience. It also highlights the value of investing in community-led initiatives that engage people who may not otherwise access traditional health services, helping to reduce future pressure on healthcare systems through prevention and early intervention.
A Lasting Legacy
The final whistle marked the end of the tournament, but not the end of its impact.
Participants leave the programme healthier, more active, more confident, and better connected than when they started. The healthier habits, stronger friendships, improved mental wellbeing, and increased awareness of Type 2 diabetes prevention developed through KIDOF will continue to benefit individuals, families, and communities for years to come.
Global Diabetes Initiatives extends its sincere appreciation to Sport England for investing in this innovative programme and recognising the power of community sport to improve health and transform lives.
We also thank every player, team leader, referee, volunteer, partner organisation, and supporter whose commitment made KIDOF an outstanding success.
KIDOF (Kick Type 2 Diabetes Out Football) has demonstrated that football is far more than a game. It is a powerful public health intervention for preventing Type 2 diabetes, promoting mental wellbeing, reducing health inequalities, and building healthier, stronger, and more connected communities. This is the lasting legacy of KIDOF.
