The Commission said: “The money will be used to fund specific interventions and support packages for children and young people to help integrate them into community sports clubs. This could be help with the additional costs associated with taking part such as equipment, sports kit or even helping with transport costs.”
The money was raised by the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation and the Guernsey branch of The Lord’s Taverners. The Rockin’ Robin Christmas Ball raised over £20,000 towards the initiative.
“Sport has the power to change communities. It can strengthen social ties, improve both physical and mental health, support wellbeing and foster inclusion and respect,” said Jeremy Frith, the Commission’s Performance Director.
“The Guernsey Sports Commission believes that everyone in Guernsey should have the opportunity and support to participate and compete and fulfil their potential no matter what their background, age or level of ability in a safe and supportive environment.
“We believe that a positive experience of PE and sport at school complemented by an inclusive and supported pathway into community sports clubs is of fundamental importance in ensuring that all children can enjoy a lifelong love of sport and realise the many benefits it can bring.
“Our work in schools allows us to build strong relationships with each school community and to understand their needs.”
Pictured: The black tie Rockin’ Robin Christmas Ball raised more than £20,000 for the Guernsey Sports Commission to put towards supporting vulnerable children into community sports clubs.
Dave Warr, who chairs the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation, said: “Encouraging young people from all walks of life and abilities to participate in and enjoy sport is at the heart of what the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation is all about.”
Tim Robins, Chairman of The Lord’s Taverners in Guernsey, said: “Giving young people a sporting chance – that’s the goal of The Lord’s Taverners. We work to ensure that disadvantaged and disabled young people have access to free sport and all the benefits it can bring.
“The Guernsey Sports Commission’s programme within the schools and community really complements our goal to reach as many young people as possible.”
Mr Frith said the Commission wanted “to say a massive thank you to the Ray Lowe Sporting Foundation and The Lord’s Taverners for their incredible support for our work as well as all those who attended the Rockin’ Robin event and raised such an incredible amount.
“We are looking forward to presenting our plans to a wide range of services and agencies supporting vulnerable children and young people with a view to ensuring we work together to make sure those children most in need are able to access sport.”