On 20th January, an excellent group of people in and around local sport came together at Wimbledon Library for a pivotal Sports Bank meeting, led by Sport Local Action.
This initiative is taking its first steps in Merton, with a bold ambition to remove financial barriers between young people and sport across the UK.
Huge thanks to our incredible attendees:
Julian Agostini (Mash Media & The Old Wimbledonians Association)
Simon Burton (Smiley Charity Film Awards, World Sports Photography Awards & Goals 4 Girls)
Andy Butcher (Morden Little League)
Rachel Buwalda (FabLittleBag)
David Gentles (London Borough of Merton)
Tom Goulder (STRONGER FITNESS AND MARTIAL ARTS LIMITED)
JJ John Joseph (Metropolitan Police / Premier League Kicks)
Nick Miller (SOUTHFIELDS ACADEMY)
Dean Morgan (Social Injustice Limited)
Garry Morgan (Promologic)
Gilly Razvi (Sports Lawyer)
Lewis Riches (@Harris Academy Wimbledon)
John Simpson (Old Blues)
Craig Wellstead (Dons Local Action Group)
Xavier Wiggins, BEM Wiggins (Sport Local Action and Dons Local Action Group)
The meeting was a key step in addressing:
- The cost of kit and equipment.
- Transport barriers to facilities.
- Coaching, mentorship, and tailored support for young people.
- Specific needs for girls in sport, including period poverty and access.
Key initiatives include:
1️. The launch of Game Changers, an accreditation scheme for clubs that prioritise inclusion.
2️. Partnerships with schools, clubs, and gyms to provide access and resources.
3️. Developing innovative tools like a discreet referral app to match needs with resources.
This meeting is only the beginning, but the momentum and collaboration were inspiring. If you’re involved in sports, education, or youth engagement and want to join us on this journey, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure no child misses out on the opportunities sport provides.
Get in touch on xavier@sportlocalaction.org. Let’s make a difference!