Sport, Support and Positive Change: Transforming Young Lives in Petersham
Support Through Sport CIO, based in Long Eaton, uses sport and physical activity to engage, support and empower children and young people, delivering youth clubs, sports sessions, holiday programmes, mentoring and outreach work across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
The organisation delivers the Petersham Youth Project in partnership with Hope Long Eaton CIC, funded by the Community Safety Partnership Team at Erewash Borough Council. Building on this existing work, Support Through Sport delivered a Summer 2026 holiday programme for young people aged 12-17, providing a safe, structured alternative to spending time on the streets.
“It’s About Me funding has made a significant difference to our organisation. Without this funding, our Petersham Youth Project would normally operate during term time only. The funding also covered additional staffing and venue costs and, as a result, we were able to offer a wider range of activities, workshops and partner-led sessions than would otherwise have been possible.” Support Through Sport
The HAF programme was delivered in partnership with Hope Long Eaton CIC, whose contribution played a key role in the programme’s success. Hope Long Eaton provided additional staff throughout the summer to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants. They also purchased and coordinated the provision of hot meals, snacks and drinks for young people attending the programme. Their staff team have worked in the Petersham area for many years and have developed strong, trusted relationships with local young people, families and residents, helping to maximise engagement and strengthen community connections.
The team were keen to address the challenge of anti-social behaviour in the area and are incredibly proud to have received a significant amount of positive feedback from local residents and community members, who have noted improvements in young people’s behaviour and are speaking more positively about young people in Petersham.
“It’s been really positive seeing young people involved in organised activities throughout the summer. There has been a noticeable improvement in the atmosphere around the area.” Member of the Local Community
“The project is making a real difference and is helping change perceptions of young people in Petersham for the better.” Member of the Local Community
By combining physical activity, healthy food, trusted adult support and access to specialist services, the programme helped young people stay safe, active and connected while improving their overall wellbeing and strengthening relationships between young people and their local community.
“The programme has helped keep my child active, engaged and out of trouble during the holidays.” Parent/Guardian
“The sessions gave me somewhere safe to go instead of just hanging around. I learned things I didn’t know about mental health and making good decisions.” Young Person
The multi-sport programme gave young people the chance to take part in a wide range of activities, while a variety of workshops and discussions created opportunities to explore topics such as mental health, confidence, healthy relationships, decision-making, employment, future aspirations and personal development. External specialist partners also joined the programme to deliver sessions on substance misuse awareness, sexual health, mental wellbeing and employment opportunities.
“Our HAF programme has had a positive impact on young people, families and the wider community by providing a safe and supportive environment throughout the school holidays. Through a combination of sports, enrichment activities and informal education, young people increased their awareness and understanding of important topics including mental health, healthy relationships, substance misuse, sexual health, exploitation and making positive life choices.” Support Through Sport
Support Through Sport would like to extend its sincere thanks to Hope Long Eaton CIC for their continued partnership, commitment and support in creating positive opportunities for young people in the Petersham community.