Jill Scott’s partner is Shelly Unitt, the sister of former England player Rachel Unitt, with whom Jill has been in a committed relationship for over six years. The couple, who became engaged in 2020, shares a deep connection rooted in their mutual love for football and community, and they currently co-operate a successful coffee shop called Boxx2Boxx in Manchester. This article provides an in-depth look at Shelly Unitt’s background, how the pair met, their public appearances on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, and their future plans as one of the UK’s most beloved sporting couples.
Who is Shelly Unitt?
Shelly Unitt is a community-focused professional and entrepreneur who gained widespread public recognition as the supportive partner of Lioness legend Jill Scott. While she is the sister of Rachel Unitt—a fellow former England international—Shelly has carved out her own identity through her work in the health and fitness sector.
Before becoming a public figure, Shelly worked extensively in community health, a background that helped her support Jill through the physical and mental rigors of professional football. Her understanding of the sporting world, filtered through her sister’s career, made her a uniquely qualified partner for an athlete of Jill’s caliber.
Their Engagement Story
Jill and Shelly took their relationship to the next level in March 2020 when they announced their engagement to the public. The proposal was a private, intimate affair that reflected their preference for keeping significant personal milestones away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi.
The announcement was made via social media, featuring a picture of the engagement ring alongside a celebratory caption that resonated with thousands of fans. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic shortly after their engagement, the couple remained focused on their future, using the downtime to plan their next business move.
The Boxx2Boxx Coffee Shop
In April 2021, the couple launched Boxx2Boxx Coffee, a boutique coffee shop located in Northenden, Manchester. The name is a clever play on Jill’s famed role as a “box-to-box” midfielder, a position that requires immense stamina and versatility.
The shop has become a hub for local football fans and has hosted numerous community events, often featuring Jill’s former teammates. Shelly manages the day-to-day operations of the business, ensuring that the atmosphere remains welcoming and that the brand reflects their shared values of hard work and community spirit.
Support During I’m A Celeb
Shelly Unitt became a household name for many when she appeared on screen to support Jill during her winning stint on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2022. Her emotional reunion with Jill on the famous jungle bridge was one of the most-watched moments of the series.
During the show, Shelly took over Jill’s social media accounts, engaging with fans and providing a behind-the-scenes look at the family’s support system. This period solidified Shelly’s status as a fan favorite, as she showcased the same humor and down-to-earth personality that Jill is known for.
Shared Professional Interests
The couple’s life is deeply intertwined with the world of women’s football, and they are frequently seen together at major tournaments and awards ceremonies. Shelly’s presence at Jill’s side during the Euro 2022 final at Wembley was a testament to their partnership’s strength.
Beyond just spectatorship, the pair often collaborates on charitable initiatives aimed at increasing participation in sports among young girls. Their professional synergy allows them to use their combined platform to advocate for better facilities and more visibility for the female game.
Practical Information and Planning
If you are a fan looking to support the couple’s business or learn more about their public appearances, consider the following details:
Location: Boxx2Boxx Coffee, 375 Palatine Rd, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FY.
Operating Hours: Typically 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Monday–Saturday); 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM (Sunday).
Price Range: Mid-range; artisanal coffees and local pastries usually cost between £3 and £8.
What to Expect: A friendly, football-themed environment where you might occasionally spot Jill Scott herself.
Tips for Visitors: The shop is dog-friendly and often gets busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Future Wedding Plans
While the couple has been engaged since 2020, they have been vocal about not rushing into a wedding ceremony. Both Jill and Shelly have stated in interviews that they want their wedding to be a relaxed celebration with family and friends, free from the pressure of a “celebrity wedding” spectacle.
They often joke that their busy schedules—between Jill’s broadcasting work for ITV and Shelly’s management of Boxx2Boxx—make it difficult to find a free weekend. However, they continue to share glimpses of their life together, proving that their commitment remains stronger than ever regardless of a formal date.
Public Image and Influence
As a high-profile LGBTQ+ couple in the sporting world, Jill and Shelly serve as significant role models for young people across the UK. Their visibility has helped foster a more inclusive atmosphere within the football community, showing that professional success and personal authenticity can go hand-in-hand.
They have been praised for their transparency and the way they handle both the highs of Jill’s career and the challenges of running a small business. Their influence extends beyond football, as they are often invited to speak on panels regarding entrepreneurship and mental health.
FAQs
How long have they been together?
Jill and Shelly have been a couple for over six years. They first met through Shelly’s sister, Rachel Unitt, who was Jill’s former England teammate.
When did they get engaged?
Jill popped the question in March 2020, just before the first COVID-19 lockdown. She famously announced it on Instagram with a photo of the ring and a cup of coffee, captioned: “The best coffee so far.”
Are they married yet?
As of early 2026, they have not publicly confirmed a wedding date. While they’ve been engaged for nearly six years, they’ve joked that their busy schedules—including Jill’s I’m a Celebrity win and her punditry career—have made them “passing ships,” but they have recently confirmed they are back in the “swing” of wedding planning.
What is Boxx2Boxx?
It is the boutique coffee shop the couple owns together in Northenden, Manchester. The name is a play on Jill’s position as a “box-to-box” midfielder. It’s common to see Jill herself behind the counter making flat whites when she’s not on TV.
What does Shelly Unitt do?
In addition to co-running the coffee shop, Shelly has worked as a Community Health Officer. She is also the sister of Rachel Unitt, a former England football star.
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