Charlie Perkins, a community coach with the Robins Foundation charity, emphasizes the importance of using football as a tool to build relationships. He explains that they organize various football-based games for local kids, such as regular matches, Wembley, and One Bounce. These sessions take place in the Morrisons car park in Hartcliffe, an area that previously had high levels of anti-social behavior.
Since the inception of the football sessions in the car park, there has been a significant reduction in reported incidents of anti-social behavior. Children who used to engage in negative activities like stealing or being abusive are now actively participating in the football sessions. The project has been successful in engaging the local youth and providing them with a positive outlet for their energy.
Community coach Jimmy Woolland shares his experience of how children have eagerly embraced the football sessions, waiting for them to begin and actively participating. The project has not only reduced anti-social behavior but has also led to deeper engagement with young people. Some children have even progressed to attending structured coaching sessions at Hareclive Academy.
The project is funded by various organizations, including Bristol City Council, Morrisons, and Avon and Somerset Police. Despite facing challenges due to budget cuts in youth services, the project has thrived and provided a welcoming environment for young people in Hartcliffe. The coaches aim to inspire and engage the youth by building meaningful relationships and offering free sports sessions.
The success of the project is evident in the positive impact it has had on the children, as they express how the coaches have taught them new things and provided a fun and engaging environment. The coaches, many of whom are from Hartcliffe, have worked hard to create a safe space for young people to come together and enjoy playing football.
As the sessions continue to grow and attract more participants, the coaches hope that some of the children will eventually take on leadership roles within the organization. The journey of community coach Charlie Perkins, who started as a participant in the program, serves as an inspiring example of how engagement and mentorship can transform lives.
The project not only addresses anti-social behavior but also provides valuable opportunities for the youth to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Through the power of football and community engagement, the project in Hartcliffe is making a lasting impact on the lives of young people.