This year ECFS is raising money for two amazing charities Centrepoint and Show Racism the Red Card. Our theme this year is distortion: distortion is our reflection on the surreal social climate that we have found ourselves living in. This year ECFS will explore aspects of the past year that have ‘distorted’ the boundaries and our perspective of what we once thought defined our status quo. These are those interactions between society and the natural world and between safety and uncertainty. However, while at times our experiences have seemed surreal, warped and even unforgiving, we hope to also remind people of the beauty and hope that still remains of this distortion opening up the possibility to redefine these boundaries in new and better ways.

Centrepoint is the UK’s leading youth homelessness charity, supporting over 14,000 young people every year. The organization is determined to end youth homelessness and prepare these individuals to live independently when the time comes. Centrepoint does this by providing vulnerable young people with accommodation, health, support and life skills. They also offer excellent programmes about housing, health, learning, policy and research, engagement, and moving on. Ultimately, Centrepoint strives to help individuals transition from homelessness to a bright and positive future.

Show Racism the Red Card is one of the UK’s largest anti-racism educational charity. The charity aims to tackle racism by utilising the power and influence of football, and prominent players in order to raise awareness and spread an anti-racism message. They have also recently started to work with role models from other sports. Every year, Show Racism the Red Card provides educational sessions to 50 000 individuals across the UK. Alongside this they also produce educational resources and activities which are designed to challenge misconceptions, stereotypes and negative attitudes in society. As part of our partnership we will be working with Scottish fashion model Eunice Olumide, to explore racism within the fashion industry.