Argyle Community Trust has unveiled its ambitious new five-year strategy, setting out a clear vision to build healthier, stronger, and more empowered communities across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall.
The strategy, titled "Trust In Us: Strategic Plan 2026-2030", was officially launched at The Hub at Foulston Park, bringing together partners, sponsors, funders, and stakeholders from across the region.
As the official charity of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, the Trust will use the power of football and the reach of the club to address some of the most significant challenges facing local communities over the next five years, including health inequalities, poverty, social isolation, inactivity, and barriers to opportunity.
The new strategy is built around four key pillars:
Tackling Health Inequalities
Supporting people to lead healthier lives through targeted wellbeing programmes, physical activity initiatives, and community-based interventions designed to reduce health disparities across the region. The Trust has committed to supporting more than 1,500 people annually through health-focused programmes.
Improving Opportunities for All
Creating inclusive opportunities regardless of age, ability, or background, increasing access to education, training, employment pathways, and sport and physical activity across Devon and Cornwall. The Trust aims to grow its community provision by 10% each year.
Building Stronger Communities
Reducing isolation, increasing community safety, and supporting young people through targeted interventions, mentoring, and education programmes that help residents achieve their potential and feel connected to their communities. The strategy includes a commitment to support 2,500 young people through targeted programmes by 2030.
Providing Inspiring Spaces
Continuing to invest in high-quality community facilities, including the ongoing development of Foulston Park, while creating welcoming environments where local people can connect, learn, improve their wellbeing, and thrive. The Trust plans to invest £1.2 million into facilities and services over the strategy period.
The strategy has been informed by extensive local data and community insight, highlighting challenges including poverty, poor health outcomes, loneliness, inactivity, and educational inequalities across Plymouth, Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The Trust aims to use these insights to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.
Speaking at the launch, Mark Lovell, Chief Executive Officer of Argyle Community Trust, said: "This strategy represents our commitment to the communities we serve and our belief that everyone should have access to opportunities that help them thrive. While challenges across our communities continue to grow, so does our determination to make a positive difference.
“Through the power of football, strong partnerships and investment in our people and places, we have set an ambitious but achievable roadmap for the next five years. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far, but even more excited about what comes next.
“We would like to thank the many partners, supporters, sponsors, and stakeholders whose collaboration has helped shape the strategy and support the development of facilities and programmes that are transforming lives across the region. Without your support, this strategy simply wouldn’t be possible."
The event was attended by representatives from a range of high-profile organisations that support the Trust's work across the community, alongside representatives of the football club, including owner Simon Hallett.
Simon added: “As Chairman of Plymouth Argyle, I often talk about football clubs being more than what happens on a Saturday afternoon. We all love the football, of course, but the most successful clubs are those that make a genuine difference in the communities they represent. That's why the work of Argyle Community Trust is so important.
“From the Club's perspective, I want everyone to know that we are fully invested in this journey. The relationship between Plymouth Argyle and Argyle Community Trust is incredibly important to us. The Trust carries our badge into communities every day and demonstrates the very best of what this football club stands for.”
The launch event also celebrated the Trust's remarkable growth and impact, including its recognition as EFL Community Club of the Season 2026, alongside a series of nationally recognised programmes supporting vulnerable children, families experiencing poverty, people with disabilities, and those living with significant health challenges.
A central feature of the strategy is the continued development of The Hub at Foulston Park, which has already become a focal point for community activity in Devonport. Future plans include expanded sports, wellbeing and educational facilities designed to create opportunities and inspire people of all ages and abilities.