The UK's most up-to-date social housing and public sector news website
The young people involved in the initiative where presented with medals by New Progress Housing Association’s Managing Director, Bernie Keenan (front left).
A Midnight Football League, that took place on the Wade Hall estate, Leyland, in November and December, has been hailed a huge success by all involved, at a closing ceremony just before Christmas.
The initiative, funded by Lancashire County Council, ran from October 23 until December 18.
The project was lead by New Progress Housing Association, who teamed up with South Ribble Community Leisure, the Lancashire Football Association, Preston North End and local community policing teams.
Aimed at getting youngsters off the streets on Friday nights and onto the football pitch, the project aimed to show that through the development of multi-agency working, bringing together community voluntary, private, and statutory agencies, that football could become the focus of increased sports participation for young people.
It is hoped that this, in turn, will reduce crime and instances of anti-social behaviour and will support them to move on to other forms of education, training and employment.
The venue, on Royal Avenue, Leyland, provided a safe environment for young people to meet and take part in skills and fitness work as well as tournaments from 8pm until 10pm.
The partnership has plans to develop the scheme in other areas
of South Ribble, including Kingsfold and Bamber Bridge.
