We know that sport can change lives, and particularly by inspiring
young people. Whilst sporting activity is good for all who enjoy it
there is growing evidence that it can make a big difference in the
lives of vulnerable young people, and those who might have had
problems at school or with the law.
On Tuesday in the House of Commons I called a debate to discuss this
issue and also to highlight the work of the Charlton Athletic
Community Trust in East Kent, and their activity as an alternative
curriculum provider in New Romney. As a football club, Charlton brings
credibility in the eyes of young people and can use football and sport
to engage people and encourage their participation in youth work
projects and courses. Some of this work might centre on football and
sporting coaching. It can also include courses in music and the arts
and in the case of their programme in New Romney core teaching
subjects like maths and English.
A study conducted in 2009 by Canterbury Christ Church University
showed that their evening football sessions in Dover District had led
to a 27% fall in anti social behaviour, with larger decreases of 35%
in Aylesham and 59% in Buckland. Earlier in the year I attended the
launch of their alternative curriculum work in New Romney along with
my fellow Kent MP, the Sports Minister Hugh Robertson. Figures
produced for me by Charlton show that they have seen a marked
improvement in the attendance rates for the young people enrolled in
the course. One student who had a 1% attendance rate at their last
school has been to over half of the classes and another who had an
attendance rate of only 26% now has a perfect record. This is a credit
to both the coaches and the students.
This formula of engagement with young people through activities that
interest them and then offering them further opportunities to learn
new skills is one that we also see in other successful youth work in
Kent. Catch 22 works across the county to support skills training and
community work. The Folkestone Youth Project in the harbour, run by
the excellent resident youth worker Emma Flower, works with hundreds
of young people every week. As well as maintaining the popular skate
park, it provides courses in practical skills and help and advice on
health and personal issues. The Shed, which is home to the Youth
Project, also provides space for the Kent Refugee Action Network led
by the Reverend Ken Berkin. This charity works to help young refugees
to adjust to life in the UK and support themselves.
Last Saturday morning I was also delighted to call in at the Christmas
coffee morning at the United Reform church in Folkestone to raise
money for the Rainbow Centre. It was good to see so much support for
this very worthwhile organisation that makes such a difference to the
lives of people in often very difficult circumstances. I would like to
wish them and all of their volunteers well this winter and in
particular those who will be working along with other local churches
to provide the night shelter