DEVON County Football Association fought off competition from the 50 other County FAs to secure the coveted Employee Wellbeing and Engagement Award at the 2025 County FA Recognition Awards, hosted at Wembley Stadium.

Devon County FA’s Our People Plan and Investors In People Accreditation beat Hertfordshire’s Employee Engagement Group to the accolade, which was accepted by the whole County FA workforce.

The Our People Plan Strategy was developed following significant consultation and evaluation with key internal stakeholders and gave the organisation a clear progression plan for employee wellbeing and development.

This resulted in increased staff satisfaction levels, better wellbeing and has strengthened staff cohesion and reduced workplace stress.

This renewed focus on people has empowered Devon FA staff to perform at their best, fostering a motivated and connected team that delivers an even higher standard of service to support the Devon Football Family.

The County FA’s nomination also included reference to the Investors In People Silver Accreditation which was achieved in March 2024, before being shortlisted for the UK Employer of the Year later that year.

The organisation was also recognised as a finalist for three other awards: The Facility Development Award for our involvement in the Devonport and Brickfields Redevelopment, the Progressive Governance Award for Implementing the New Open Age Safeguarding Compliance and League Engagement and the Women and Girls Award for the Women's Walking Football League.

All of the nominations were recognition of the amazing contributions the Devon Football Family is making across the County as it continues to Enhance Lives Through Football.

Devon County FA CEO, Chris French, said: "We are extremely proud of our workforce who on a daily basis, deliver so much, to such a high standard and the Employee Wellbeing and Engagement award is recognition for them and everything they do to support our Devon Football Family.

“The team at the County Ground are a team the whole Devon football community can be proud of and we look forward to seeing them continue to flourish, grow and develop.”

The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster added: "These awards shine a light on the outstanding work being delivered by our County FA network to grow and enhance grassroots football nationwide.

"It’s always inspiring to see how bold ideas and creative initiatives are turning into real opportunities for people to get involved and enjoy the game.

“My congratulations go to all of the winners and shortlisted projects – each one is making a meaningful difference to our footballing communities across the country."

• Devon County FA are the governing body for football in Devon. Using the beautiful game, its role is to support and develop Devon football, to provide an inclusive and positive experience for all.

Working alongside the Devon Football Family Devon County FA’s Ten Year Vision for the grassroots game focuses on Five Key Pillars: Connection, Culture, People, Place and Wellbeing.