Save the Children will have its name on the shirts of players at Heart of Midlothian football club for the next three seasons, following a seven-figure sponsorship deal with a group of anonymous donors.

The partnership is being funded by an anonymous group of philanthropists in a seven-figure-deal that will be equally split between both the club and Save the Children.

Save the Children will use the money to “provide basic household essentials for families with young children, as well as delivering family-focused support that enables children to get the most out of school”.

A separate donation will go to the club’s own charity the Big Hearts Trust to fund its work in the local community.

Neil Mathers, Save the Children’s head of Scotland, said: “To have Save the Children’s name on Heart of Midlothian FC football shirts is an absolute honour – and a perfect match for our charity. It’s a fantastic opportunity for Save the Children and will allow us to reach many more children across Edinburgh, helping them to get the best start in life and achieve their potential."

The club said it was the first time a British club will have their shirts sponsored by a national charity, although Aston Villa were sponsored by local hospice Acorns during the 2008-09 season. Barcelona also have a deal with Unicef, featuring the charity on the front and back of the club’s shirts.

The club has previously received a three year sponsorship deal from Wonga for an undisclosed amount.

Ann Budge, chair and chief executive of Heart of Midlothian FC, said: “The benefactors are wholly supportive of the way in which the club is being rebuilt and of the values that underpin its activities. As the team is restored to its rightful place in the SPFL, we can use the magical formula of football to enhance the lives of children and families in the community. It’s a perfect match.”