Constituency matters... a weekly column by the Member of Parliament for Folkestone and Hythe, Damian Collins.
8 December 2011

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.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©