A woman who spent eight years homeless — including living in her car and in hostels — has represented England at the Wroclaw Cup, part of the internationally recognised Homeless World Cup, held in Poland this summer.
Chantelle, from Merseyside, had never owned a passport before football gave her the chance to travel abroad for the first time — and wear the England shirt in an international tournament.
Watch her full story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LhPy70Ahwc
She was supported into the opportunity through a powerful community partnership between Wirral Ways, Tranmere Rovers in the Community, and Liverpool Homeless Football Club — who together help people rebuild confidence, improve mental health, and access new opportunities through sport.
“No matter how hard things can be, there’s always something good if you work hard enough,” said Chantelle.
“Whether it’s indirectly or directly, someone will open a door for you — and that’s what these guys did. I’m so grateful. I never thought I’d do anything like this.”
Chantelle first got involved with football through free, community-run sessions for people experiencing homelessness. What started as tagging along with friends soon became a lifeline — and ultimately, a route to international football.
She reconnected with education, rebuilt her self-belief, and became a core part of the community team — even going on to play for Tranmere Rovers Ladies for two years.
“It’s my mental health support. It’s what keeps me regulated and happy,” she said. “Without sport, I’d be a different person. I’d be angry all the time.”
Her performance on the pitch caught the eye of coaches and community leads — and earlier this year, she was selected to travel with the England team to Poland to take part in the Wroclaw Cup.
For Chantelle, this was much more than football — it was the opportunity of a lifetime.
“Just turning 38, I thought the opportunities had been and gone. I never thought I’d represent England. I’m so lucky. All three teams – Tranmere, Wirral Ways and Liverpool Homeless Football Club – supported me and gave me everything I needed.”
She also bonded with players from around the world, including teams from France and Mexico, and is now hoping to travel again to future international tournaments — including a potential return to France or even Mexico or Australia, if funding allows.
Ray Smith, an outreach worker with Wirral Ways and the Chairman and Founder of Liverpool Homeless Football Club, supported Chantelle throughout her journey. Speaking in the film, he said:
“She commits to everything she does. She plays the game with great spirit, and she’s just got a lovely personality. I wish her all the best for the future.”
The work is part of a wider partnership between Wirral Ways, Liverpool Homeless Football Club, and Tranmere Rovers in the Community, which provides free weekly football sessions for men and women, offers routes into education and employment, and supports people who have experienced homelessness, addiction, and poor mental health.
Chantelle is now encouraging others to get involved:
“We’re at Tranmere Rovers Football Club twice a week — it’s an open session, and it’s free. Whether you want to play or just get out of the house, come and see us. Sport can change your life.”
Last Updated on 30 September 2025