Cumberland FA has announced the renewal of its partnership with Specsavers for an eighth consecutive season.
The collaboration will once again provide support to young players and referees across the county.
Since the partnership began in 2018, over £20,000 has been invested directly into the scheme, benefiting more than 363 young players across Cumberland.
The initiative continues to remove barriers for those who require prescription eyewear to participate in grassroots football.
For the new season, registered youth league players aged 18 and under who wear or require glasses to play in Cumberland’s grassroots leagues are eligible for up to 50% reimbursement on protective sports eyewear bought from Specsavers stores in Carlisle, Penrith, Whitehaven, and Workington.
All registered youth referees and players involved in Cumberland FA’s Ability Counts League can also apply for a bursary toward the cost of prescribed eyewear.
The 2025/26 scheme includes a tiered contribution model for prescription glasses:
• Tier 1 – 50% of £100 (Sphere +3/-6, up to 2 cyl)
• Tier 2 – 50% of £150 (Sphere +6/-8, up to 4 cyl)
• Tier 3 – 50% of £200 (Sphere +9/-10, up to 4 cyl)
Specialist prescriptions exceeding £200 will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with applicants encouraged to contact Cumberland FA before purchasing.
Ben Snowdon, CEO of Cumberland FA, said: “The FA recommends protective eyewear, but we understand the financial burden this can place on families.
“This partnership helps remove that barrier, ensuring safety and encouraging participation. We’re incredibly grateful to Specsavers for their continued support of grassroots football in Cumberland.”
Daniel Wood, retail director at Specsavers, added: “We’re delighted to continue supporting Cumberland FA and the young football community.
“Our teams are committed to helping players and referees with their visual needs so they can enjoy the game safely and confidently.”
