Kickz

The Kickz concept launched by former Prime Minister Tony Blair was born out of discussions between the Metropolitan Police and the football industry. The Government's support for the programme, through the Respect Task Force, led to a desire to expand it further than London, which will now lead to involvement from the Association of Chief Police Officers and Association of Police Authorities. The project name and logo Kickz was chosen and designed by young people.

additional support

Funding for the programme's roll out was provided primarily by HM Treasury via the Football Foundation with additional support from the Department for Culture Media and Sport, the youth volunteering charity v, the Respect Task Force and the Department of Health.

Project objectives:

Using the power of football and the appeal of professional football clubs, the purpose of Kickz is to target some of the most disadvantaged areas of the country in order to create safer, stronger and more respectful communities through the development of young people's potential.

The scheme is designed to:
# Engage young people in a range of constructive activities which link to the Every Child Matters framework.

# Break down barriers between the police and young people.

# Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in the targeted neighbourhoods.

# ncrease the playing, coaching and officiating opportunities for participants.

# Create routes into education, training and employment.

# Encourage volunteering within projects and throughout the target neighbourhoods.

# Increase young people's interest in and connections with the professional game.

For more information go to www.footballfoundation.org.