Initial Engagement & School Challenges R joined our foundation in September 2019 after being referred by his school into our education project. At the time, R was disengaged in school with multiple exclusions and negative behaviour points. Clive (the coach funded by this project) built a positive relationship and focussed on developing his coping strategies in school. They worked together to manage hyperactivity, low-level disruption, and the choices R has around what decisions he makes.
The Impact of Covid & Critical Intervention Once the Covid Pandemic hit, we unfortunately lost contact with R due to the suspension of delivery in his school. However, after learning that Clive was running boxing sessions in the evening at a community hub, R had the courage to attend. He explained how he had recently been approached by a local gang who were putting pressure on him to meet up with them, noting that some of his friends had already become part of this circle.
Development, Volunteering, & Employment Our staff member re-engaged R into our community hub in Ardwick, mentoring him alongside our weekly hub sessions. R was part of the trips to Amir Khan’s boxing gym, was a kit carrier at the Manchester International Athletics competition, and began volunteering at the foundation. He has now completed his Sports Leadership Level 1 & 2 certificates and, after volunteering for 12 months, has secured a paid role with the foundation as a junior coach supporting community hubs.
Leadership & A Positive Future He has just been appointed as one of the chair people on our youth council, leading with maturity, confidence, and the respect of his peers. We are incredibly proud of R and the hard work he has put in to ensure he has a safe and positive future. He is a role model for young people, and his story is a testimony to the power that sport and education can have if we are able to intervene and prevent negative influences. Unfortunately, some of R’s peers are now already in the criminal justice system.
Staff Impact & Gratitude Clive, a very modest member of staff, has been instrumental in the outcome of this young person’s life and continues to effect change across the foundation. This is a very real example as to why we are thankful to you for supporting our team with core funding to ensure that success is not left to chance, but that we can make it a choice.