The Leeds United Foundation continues its commitment to community wellbeing with the Ups and Downs Café, a weekly drop‑in session designed to bring supporters together in a safe, welcoming environment at Elland Road.
Open every Wednesday from 2pm to 4pm, the café is free for anyone aged 18 or above and offers a warm space for people to connect over the shared highs and lows of being a Leeds United supporter.
The sessions are proudly funded through the Premier League and PFA Players’ Fund, which supports club charities across England and Wales in delivering programmes focused on wellbeing, tackling social isolation, and responding to local community needs.
The fund has backed hundreds of thousands of participants nationwide by enhancing mental and physical wellbeing and reducing loneliness key aims reflected in the ethos of the Ups and Downs Café.
This particular initiative was co designed with insight from three Leeds United favourites: Tony Dorigo, Eddie Gray, and Bridie Hannon, whose ideas helped shape a session rooted deeply in the club’s identity and supporter culture.
Each Wednesday, attendees enjoy a blend of light‑hearted activities and nostalgic storytelling. Sessions include:
Quizzes and supporter‑led activities
Discussions themed around Leeds United’s past and present
Visits from former and current Leeds United players
A recent highlight was a visit from club legend Lucas Radebe, who shared inspirational stories from his time captaining the Mighty Whites an experience that resonated strongly with the group and reminded everyone of the power of football to unite people giving a lifeline against loneliness and social isolation
Feedback from attendees shows the café has become more than just a social meet‑up, it has become an essential support system. Many participants have reported:
Reduced loneliness
Better social connection
Improved mental wellbeing
Increased physical activity through engagement with Foundation programmes
These outcomes align closely with wider Premier League community objectives, which emphasise improving physical and mental health, tackling inequality, and strengthening communities.
Whether you attend on your own or with a friend, whether you’re a lifelong Leeds United supporter or a newer fan, the Ups and Downs Café offers a friendly, understanding environment where the love of football becomes a bridge to new connections.
If you or someone you know would benefit from joining, please get in touch with the Leeds United Foundation by contacting 0113 367 6014, or email [email protected].
