Disability

> Disability > Programmes > Shanghai Programme

In 1999, Liverpool and Shanghai formed a twin-city status which has been so successful that in 2006 the Liverpool Shanghai Partnership (LSP) was formed.

The aim of the link up was to significantly raise the level of bilateral economic and cultural relationship between the two cities.

In 2007, The Everton Foundation, working closely with LSP, approached the Shanghai Disabled Persons' Federation to assess the possibility of the two organisations working together for the benefit of young disabled grassroots footballers in the greater Shanghai area.

Following a number of exchange visits, a bond of trust and friendship was quickly established, leading to a formal Memorandum of Understanding relating to Everton in Shanghai.

This important agreement was signed at a ceremony held at the city's ministerial offices, with the generous support and attendance of Han Zheng (Mayor of Shanghai) and Wu Guanzheng (Secretary of State).

The vision of the programme in Shanghai is to use football to:

...develop the talents and skills of young disabled people in Shanghai to fulfill both their sporting potential, as well as enhancing their life skills to enable them to play a full and active role in society… showing the world they count.

The programme is headed by Steve Johnson, one of the UK's most celebrated and successful disabled footballers.

Steve holds Uefa coaching qualifications, as well as a degree in sports science and diploma in sports science and disability studies. With two other professional coaches on our team, the Everton in Shanghai group operate alongside training programmes for sports teachers and volunteers.

Everton in Shanghai is a three-year commitment. The partnership between SDPF and The Everton Foundation is a long-term plan which aims to generate sustainability through coaching teachers and volunteers from districts across Shanghai.

Initial planning has started for showcasing the programme at high profile international events such as the Shanghai World Expo in 2010. (See Steve Jones for any more info)