Newly crowned WSL champions, Chelsea Women will donate their prize money to the charity Refuge.
On Friday, Chelsea - who were second in the WSL table when the season was suspended in March due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic but with a game in hand to leaders Manchester City - were named Champions, when the decision was made to crown a winner on a points-per-game basis.
They have since announced the decision to donate their £100,000 to the charity Refuge, who support women and children experiencing domestic abuse.
Manager Emma Hayes told the BBC Refuge is “a charity that is close to the hearts and minds of the women’s team.”
"Up until now, our involvement was about supporting the campaign publicly with a call to action, but we all wanted to do more than that and if donating our prize money can ease some of the concerns and worries people have, then it's the least we can do. It's an important message. It's a campaign that's really dear to us and the best way we can demonstrate our support further is by committing our prize money towards it and helping those in need."
Chief Executive of Refuge Sandra Horley added that the charity had experienced a huge increase in demand to both its helpline and website services during the COVID-19 lockdown which she advised has shone a light on the thousands of women who need our support across the country right now”
"We are incredibly grateful to Chelsea Women for not only shining a light on domestic abuse, but also supporting us with a significant financial commitment-this is an incredible gesture"
Chelsea FC Women are just one team of many players who have been passionate in supporting causes close to their heart. The PFA is very proud of our members who have shown their community spirit during the current COVID-19 crisis
