Vulnerable children to be supported to access sport

Photo courtesy of Tim Langlois

Vulnerable children and young people in Guernsey will be supported to access sporting opportunities thanks to money raised by the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation and The Lord’s Taverners Guernsey Region.

The Rockin’ Robin Christmas Ball raised over £20,000 for the Guernsey Sports Commission towards the initiative.

‘Sport has the power to change communities. It can strengthen social ties, improve both physical and mental health, support wellbeing and foster inclusion and respect,’ said Jeremy Frith from the Commission.

‘The Guernsey Sports Commission believes that everyone in Guernsey should have the opportunity and support to participate and compete, and fulfil their potential no matter what their background, age, or level of ability in a safe and supportive environment. We believe that a positive experience of PE and sport at school complemented by an inclusive and supported pathway into community sports clubs is of fundamental importance in ensuring that all children can enjoy a lifelong love of sport and realise the many benefits it can bring.

‘Our work in schools allows us to build strong relationships with each school community and to understand their needs,’ said Jeremy.

The money will be used to fund specific interventions and support packages for children and young people to help integrate them into community sports clubs. This could be help with the additional costs associated with taking part such as equipment, sports kit or even helping with transport costs.

‘Encouraging young people from all walks of life and abilities to participate in and enjoy sport is at the heart of what the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation is all about,’ said Dave Warr, Chair of the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation.

Tim Robins, Chair of The Lord’s Taverners, Guernsey Branch agreed.

‘Giving young people a sporting chance, that’s the goal of the Lord’s Taverners. We work to ensure that disadvantaged and disabled young people have access to free sport and all the benefits it can bring

‘The Guernsey Sports Commission’s program within the schools and community really complements our goal to reach as many young people as possible,’ said Tim.

‘We would like to say a massive thank you to the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation and the Lord’s Taverners for their incredible support for our work, as well as all those who attended the Rockin’ Robin event and raised such an incredible amount,’ said Jeremy.

‘We are looking forward to presenting our plans to a wide range of services and agencies supporting vulnerable children and young people with a view to ensuring we work together to make sure those children most in need are able to access sport.’