Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced free sports activities for young people during the Easter holidays.
The sports activities will be funded by the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), which has invested £200,000 in the scheme.
Amid the cost-of-living crisis, it may be more difficult for young people to access opportunities like sporting activities.
As a result, the VRU will provide community organisations with a £1,500 cost-of-living payment to support young people.
Grassroots sports groups will host sessions during the holidays, and the offer will expand into sports opportunities in August.
Mr Khan said: “Tackling violence and building a safer city for all Londoners is my number one priority.
“My approach is to be tough on violence and tough on the complex causes of violence.”
He added: “I’m committed to providing positive opportunities for young people and investment from my VRU means there will be sports activities during the Easter holidays, and support to ensure there are no barriers to children and young people’s involvement.
“I know from experience the vital role sport can play in physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, and I’m determined to do everything I can to support young people so they can take full advantage of these benefits.”
Where are the sports activities taking place?
The VRU, alongside London Youth, has funded 100 grassroots community organisations across 13 London boroughs, to benefit up to 1,000 young people in areas experiencing higher levels of violence and deprivation.
Some of the activities include Brazilian jiu-jitsu and self-defence in Lambeth, judo sessions in Westminster, and tennis lessons in Brent.
Sport is a key youthwork tool to support young people fulfil their potential outside of school. Proud to be working with @MayorofLondon & @LDN_VRU through our Getting Active Movement so 100s of young people will access sport from today, through the Easter holidays, until August. https://t.co/4tw75RXJjJ
— London Youth (@LondonYouth) April 3, 2023
To find out if there are grassroots organisations hosting sporting activities for young people in your London borough, contact your local authority or contact sports@londonyouth.org.
