Budding Ronaldos and Beckhams in Fernhill have been enjoying football training, thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Services to Young People.
Detached Youth Workers Leon Bansal, who is a qualified football leader, and Judith Sandry have been working with the community in Fernhill to deliver the activities they have said they want to participate in.
They knew that football is a big deal for children and young people, with many people gathering daily on the estate’s modern, purpose-built football field for a match.
After engaging with the children and young people – aged from 13 to 23 –and the Fernhill Youth Project they organised a Basic Skills Football Level One course for them to participate in.
It saw the 10 children and young people meeting once a week for practical and written work, which has led to them all securing a formal Open College Network accreditation in Basic Football Skills.
Those who took part are due to receive their awards at a forthcoming ceremony.
Leon explained: “I work in the area and know it well. The football pitch is an excellent facility for the estate and has all the mod cons to allow residents to play even in the Winter.
“It is always busy so we knew we wanted to offer something to engage with people on the estate so they could take their interest in football further.
“They have done really well and we will continue working with them to organise competitions and tournaments, as well as the next level of basic skills training.
“This scheme could not have been possible without the support of the Fernhill Youth Project and its staff for the use of their facilities and resources.”
Cllr Eudine Hanagan, Cabinet Member for Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills, said: “This is a perfect example of why we are so proud of our Detached Youth Workers and the wider commitment of Services for Young People.
“They work on the ground in our communities, directly engaging with children and young people to find out what they want to do – and then deliver accordingly.
“Detached Youth Workers are at the frontline of what we are trying to achieve, as we work to meet the needs of our future generations, offering them access to positive social activities and the chance to pursue their interests and aspirations.”
Leon is one of a team of Detached Youth Workers, who operate throughout the county borough. They work in a street-based manner and are always happy to meet with young people for a chat, to find out what they would like to do, to direct them into social activities, or just as someone to talk to about careers, schools and other issues that may be affecting you.
For more information about Detached Youth Workers and how to find your local representative, contact Services for Young People via 01443 744101 or visit www.wicid.tv
