Government pledges landmark support for women’s football — building on the grassroots power E.ON helped fuel

In a bold move, the UK government has announced a sweeping package of support for women and girls in football, aimed at doubling pitch access, reforming school sport and transforming grassroots facilities into thriving hubs of opportunity.

At E.ON UK, we’re celebrating this not just as a victory for the game, but as recognition of the movement we’ve proudly backed for years.

Because long before the final whistle blew in Basel, handing the Lionesses’ their victory in Europe, we’ve been helping to power women’s football from the ground up.

As part of its ‘Plan for Change’, the government will:

• More than double access to prime-time grassroots football slots for women and girls
• Dedicate pitches and flagship facilities to honour the Lionesses and inspire the next generation
• Launch a brand new grants scheme with the Premier League, The FA and Football Foundation to create welcoming and inclusive facilities for girls
• Roll out a reformed school sport model to guarantee every girl equal access to football
• Establish a Women’s Sport Taskforce to keep pushing progress across sport

And this is just the beginning.

With £400million already committed to grassroots sport, the ambition is clear: to make the UK a global leader in women’s and girls’ sport by 2035.

As Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said: “We’re taking decisive action to ensure that the incredible success of the Lionesses creates a lasting legacy… from ensuring every girl has access to sport in schools to creating facilities where women and girls can thrive, we’re investing in the champions of tomorrow.”

How E.ON’s work lit the path to this moment

This landmark government backing doesn’t come from nowhere – it arrives in the wake of the work being done on the ground, by grassroots heroes, passionate partners… including E.ON.

E.ON Next is a proud partner of England Football, and together we help drive the message home and support grassroots clubs across the country.

It’s part of the reason why we created The Pass – a campaign amplifying the voices of girls at local clubs.

It’s also why we launched the Greener Game, helping community clubs slash energy bills and reinvest in what matters: coaches, kits, and keeping the lights on.

And it’s why England Football and E.ON Next have committed £1.5million each year as part of the Greener Game, supporting the future of the beautiful game – and making sure local clubs don’t just stay open, but grow stronger.

Our pilot clubs are already saving up to 25% on energy costs, thanks to sustainable upgrades like solar panels, battery storage and energy audits.

That’s real money going back into the game – kicking off real impact that’s impossible to ignore

‘We need a little bit more’ – and now we’re getting it

Even as the Lionesses basked in glory at No10 Downing Street during a reception to toast their win, head coach Sarina Wiegman made it clear: the journey isn’t over.

She said: “This incredible team won the Euros and then straightaway sent a letter to you, the government, asking for access to football for all girls.

“We’re not done yet. We need some more investment. England needs to stay the trailblazer.”

That trail Sarina speaks of runs straight through grassroots clubs.

And it’s the same places where E.ON has been working, quietly but relentlessly, to help build a better game.

Now, the government is putting real momentum behind that mission.

And it’s a moment for another celebration – not just for national football, but for every coach, volunteer and girl who believed.

A victory belonging to everyone

Yes, the Lionesses lifted the trophy.

But this win belongs to every person who passed a ball, packed a lunch or painted a touchline.

It also belongs to:

• The girls playing in borrowed kits
• The parents standing in the cold
• The volunteers opening the gates at dawn
• And the clubs powered by community, grit and green energy

And now, with government backing and E.ON’s continued support, that legacy is being built into the foundations of football’s future.

The future is fairer – and it’s just getting started

The Lionesses have proven what’s possible.

The government has stepped up with the commitment.

And E.ON will continue doing what we do best: powering the game where it starts – in every corner of every community.

Because this isn’t just about celebrating a trophy.

It’s about transforming the game for generations to come.

Congratulations, Lionesses.

And to every grassroots club out there – we’re with you. Always.

To learn more about the Greener Game, click here.