The SELF Programme focuses on youth crime prevention through sport, each programme engages with young people (14-18) for 40 hours, over 10 weeks.

Our project uses sport to engage young people who are on the verge of becoming NEET (not engaged in employment, education and training) and allow them clear pathways into work or education. Statistics from the Department of Education show that 22.1% of 16-18 year olds in the Birmingham area are NEET or who’s activity is unknown.

Working in partnership the local police and other partners we provide the engagement element of the programme focusing on self-confidence, self-leadership and communication skills. Young people will then be signposted to specialist providers who will focus on transition to education, training and employment. Data released by Birmingham City Council in January 2017 shows that the youth unemployment rate in the city is higher than the national average. Birmingham as a whole has a youth unemployment rate of 4.6% compared to the national 2.7% figure. 46% of young people are leaving school without achieving 5 or more A* – C grade GCSE’s and NVQ qualification levels are also very low with 25% of residents have no qualifications.

This data shows that having a focus to assist in providing preventative measures is crucial as the thought process is to stop these young people falling into the NEET category in the first place.

The programme includes a variety of sports delivered by trained sports coaches and opportunities for participants to gain qualifications and become volunteer sports leaders. We use local schools, community groups, youth organisations, police and charities to refer young people who they feel would benefit. Young people can also self-refer to the programme

 

For more information please email Judith Miller at judith.miller@aspiresportstrust.org