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Steven Naismith is providing tickets throughout the season for unemployed Everton fans for the second season running.

In conjunction with Jobcentreplus centres across Liverpool, Naismith is giving Blues fans the chance to attend games at Goodison throughout the campaign.

Naismith launched the scheme last season and wanted to carry it on this term.

“I come from a working class background and I have witnessed the hardships that unemployment can bring to individuals, families and communities. I feel an obligation, a duty to help where I can,” Naismith said.

“Liverpool and Glasgow are two massive British cities and are similar in many ways. Both were founded on the strength of their respective rivers – the Clyde and the Mersey.

“Both are working-class cities and, like many big cities across the world, they share the same social and economic issues. Unemployment is one.

“Often the focus of unemployment is undoubtedly on money but it also robs a person of a purpose, the opportunity to continue to feel and share in a common goal, a way to express yourself and to mix with fellow workers. When a man or a woman is denied the opportunity to work it is an injury upon the meaning of their existence.

“Through this initiative, I have met many good people who just want the chance to work, to contribute, to earn a living and a decent standard of life for their families.

“There are many unemployed in Liverpool trying hard to find a job and, through no fault of their own, have yet to find an opportunity. But I firmly believe the tragedy in life does not lie in not reaching your goal – the tragedy lies in having no opportunity of a goal to reach.

“For those trying hard to find a job, money will be tight. A match day ticket may well a luxury beyond their reach and this is a small gesture to help those in that situation to enjoy a day out at Goodison Park.

“From the feedback I have received, it appears to have brought some joy to many people last season and, once again, I have asked the Jobcentreplus team to help select people who are unemployed through no fault of their own and are trying hard to find employment and who would enjoy watching a match.

“I feel blessed for the opportunities and lifestyle my job as a footballer has afforded my family and me. The sport has also put me in the position where I can help the community in some small way. It is my duty to utilise that position for the greater good of the community.

“Unemployment can be a terrible thief of a person’s identity and self-esteem. I hope this initiative helps recognise good people struggling hard to overcome hard times and bring a little joy and recognition for their efforts.”

A Jobcentreplus spokesperson commented: “Jobcentreplus are delighted to continue working alongside Steven as part of our extensive partnerships across Merseyside.

“Last season many unemployed people across the city enjoyed the great opportunity of attending an Everton home match thanks to Steven. This has run really well alongside our successful relationship with Everton in the Community.”

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