Ignite Sport UK: Helping support Oxfordshire youngsters during lockdown via Children and Young Person Partnership

Ignite Sport UK general manager Hannah Bladen will speak at a virtual meeting this week about how we have helped to keep young people physically and mentally healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hosted by Oxford’s Children and Young Person Partnership, the meeting is designed to help improve the confidence and resilience of young people in Oxford via communication and digital opportunities.

The partnership meets regularly to coordinate its partners’ work to improve the lives of all young people in Oxford, particularly those with the greatest needs.

Taking place on Wednesday, January 27, from midday until 1.30pm, this month’s meeting will share details of projects that various local businesses have delivered to engage with young people during the pandemic and how Oxfordshire County Council is working to ensure all young people are supported.

Also speaking at the meeting will be: Joseph Barrett, Manager of Youth Ambition, Steve Thomas, Social Care Performance and Information Manager at Oxfordshire County Council, Deborah Hall, Head of Service – Learner Engagement at Oxfordshire County Council, Sara Fernandez, CEO of Oxford Hub, Rupert Da Silva, Director of KEEN and Richard Venables, Director of VSL.

Hannah Bladen said sharing details of Ignite Sport UK’s work in the community is vital to help ensure as many young people stay physically
and mentally active during lockdown.

She said: “The work of businesses across Oxfordshire to support young people during these times has been admirable. Collaboration is key to ensuring support is as widespread and effective as possible, especially during the pandemic. It will be useful to share best practice and learn about different organisations have approached communicating with young people while we are told to stay at home.

“Never has our physical and mental health been tested more than in the last year. I truly believe that sport can change lives which is why everyone at Ignite Sport UK team is so passionate about engaging with young people via our free online physical education lessons, weekend Fun Football sessions, and various programmes.”

The Children and Young Person Partnership works to maximise the opportunities around digital in terms of content and communication to benefit young people.

Ignite Sport UK is a registered training provider for sport and education qualifications, working in further education, apprenticeships, and adult education.

For further information, visit: Ignite Sports | Ignite Sport (ignitesportuk.com).