Footie mad local scores new job thanks to community scheme

Published by SanH for Sanctuary Housing Association in Communities and also in Education, Housing

Local resident Dayle has kicked off his career with a little help from his friends at Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club. 

Twenty-year-old Dayle Courtier, from Brighton, has changed his life, his prospects and his future through hard work, dedication and the support of Albion Goals – a project for unemployed local residents.

Led by Brighton and Hove Albion FC with funding from Sanctuary Housing, Albion Goals is a scheme for out of work locals and uses football to change the lives of residents across Brighton, Worthing and Littlehampton.

Unemployed for two years and with his first child on the way, Dayle had lost all hope of finding a job until Albion Goals came along and helped him get back on the career ladder.

By joining the community initiative and dedicating just one afternoon a week to training, dad-to-be Dayle has changed his life for the better.

Inspired by the hard work and guidance of staff at Albion Goals, Dayle applied for a job as a steward at Brighton and Hove Albion FC and walked away successful.

In little over eight months, Dayle has gone from lacking drive to a man with his future in the palm of his hand.

Dayle said: “I didn’t have any expectations when I started on the Albion Goals scheme; I definitely didn’t think I would get a career out of it.

“Albion Goals has changed my life for the better − now I have a future and can give my family the security they need.

“I would recommend that anyone in the area gives it a try.  If you’re down and out and need some help, Albion Goals will give you the kick start you need.”

The project is managed by Albion in the Community, part of Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club, in partnership with leading UK housing provider, Sanctuary Housing.

Sanctuary Housing has provided significant funding towards the project, which allows residents to attend and take part in free football sessions, led by qualified Football Association coaches from the club. 

Participants can also work towards sports-related qualifications and receive support in finding work, leading to increased confidence levels.  So far, 23 people have completed qualifications and 13 have gone on to find employment as a result of the programme.

Stephanie Killer, Sanctuary Housing’s director of housing operations (London and South East), added: “As well as bringing residents together in a fun and relaxed environment, Albion Goals is helping to equip local people with vital skills.  This enables them to take control of their futures and pursue education and employment opportunities.

“Dayle’s success shows just how well projects like Albion Goals can work when young people are offered the support they need.”

To find out more about taking part in the Albion Goals initiative, contact Jacob Naish, head of community cohesion, on 01273 878 275.