BARNSLEY FC Community Trust has generated a remarked £16.1m in social value over the last year prompting local leaders to praise the charity.

Bosses say the substantial figure demonstrates the far-reaching effects of the trust’s work, proving that football is about so much more than just the game.

From promoting physical and mental well-being to improving social cohesion, educational advancement, and economic opportunities, Barnsley FC Community Trust’s initiatives are making a profound impact on the lives of local residents.

Sir Steve Houghton, leader of the council, said: “The people at Barnsley FC Community Trust are routed in our communities.

“They talk to the people in our communities, they ask what they need.

“The work they do is hugely important, if we look that the fact that almost 15,000 people benefited from the work of the trust last year and they created £16m worth of social value in Barnsley, you could not get that at any price in any other organisation.

“They are adding to the local community, they are adding to the local economy, and they are building good relationships. At a time when we talk about community cohesion, these kinds of organisations are vital to making sure that happens.

“A well done must go to everyone involved.”