Young people from across the borough will now have extra time to hit the back of the net during informal football sessions.
The ‘Your Goal’ project offers 10 to 17-year-olds, who are at risk of entering the criminal justice system, free football and mentoring sessions.
Havant Borough Council is supporting the extension of the scheme that will now be available during all school holidays and half terms until summer 2024, offering support to young people with ongoing guidance and coaching.
Engaging and supporting vulnerable young people most at risk of involvement with crime, antisocial social behaviour, and violence the scheme uses sport, physical activity, and mentoring to better meet the needs of the most vulnerable young people in the community.
The sessions take place at Front Lawn Community Hub and are being delivered by Pompey in the Community, supported by Motiv8 Havant.
Councillor Gwen Robinson, Havant Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Lead for Housing and Communities said: “I am delighted that we have received this extra funding that will enable us to facilitate this project over a longer period.
“We’re increasingly seeing how sports-based interventions can help break the cycle and provide the support and mentoring that young people need to begin moving down a better path.”
“With the help of our partners, we can deliver important interventions at what can be a critical moment in a young person’s life. Working with the assistance of our specialist partners we can support many young people when they need it most and hopefully provide them with a real catalyst for change.”
‘Your Goal’ is funded by the National Lottery Million Hours fund and is available by referral only. To find out more information email yourgoal@pompeyitc.org.uk