Fencing Without Boundaries

The Pitch

Problem statement

Salle Angelo Fencing Club is situated in Heywood, Rochdale. This area is one of the most deprived areas in the country, average income is low and there is a high level of reported mental illness. Fencing is considered a "posh" sport and we would like to squash this misconception and be able to introduce all members of the community to the sport of fencing. Fencing is a great sport for building fitness, stamina, balance and co-ordination and is also beneficial for good mental health. Despite the nature of the sport it is also one of the safest of combat sports. We want to engage as many people as possible and get them active to improve both physical and mental health

Solution

We need to be be able to make the sport as affordable as possible and would like to be able to allow people to come and fence for free. All of the equipment is provided, and we would need additional kit. The cost of an adult set of fencing kit is around £300 per set and so to be able to provide this kit we need funding. If we were able to cover the cost of the venue hire and obtain some additional sets of equipment, we would be able to allow people to fence for free and this in turn would attract those people who cannot necessarily afford to contribute to the weekly costs of running the club.

Why are we best placed to deliver?

We have a number of keen volunteers who have experience in a number of areas including, but not limited to fencing coaching. We are the only fencing club in Rochdale. Everyone involved in the club would like to see it grow and engage with more of the local community. Our coach has experience coaching both able bodied and wheelchair fencers.

Focus Areas

Delivery plan

Budget breakdown

Beneficiaries

100 people

Expected impact

We would like to introduce at least 50 new people to the sport of fencing. By doing this we would hope that at least 25% of them would continue with the sport. This will improve each individuals physical health, tackling issues of obesity and mental health problems. By allowing people to be able to take part in sport, this will also mean that they are part of a group of people who are able to provide support and help in their lives. Socialising and meeting other people is an important part of any sports club and ours is no different.

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