Croydon Knights football team for adults with learning disabilities

The Pitch

Problem statement

People with learning disabilities are up to twice as likely to experience mental health problems and isolation than the general public. They are more likely to be obese and have health problems, and less likely to receive help. On average people with learning disabilities die 14-17 years earlier than those without. Outcomes are even worse in Croydon where our project is based. Most of our members live in areas of extreme deprivation and are from black and ethnic minorities, they experience multiple levels of discrimination. Football and being part of a team helps improve physical and mental health, but many of the people we work with can't cope with the size and demands of most clubs.

Solution

The Croydon Knights football team welcomes people of all abilities. £1000 will pay for 15 health and fitness sessions for 20 people who are learning disabled or autistic. It will enable previously excluded people to be part of a team and feel they belong. As stamina steadily grows players will become physically healthier. As they see that they are valued by other players and their skills improve their self-esteem and confidence grows. People of all abilities aged 17-78, men and women from diverse ethnic backgrounds come together with a common goal, wearing their team kit with pride.

Why are we best placed to deliver?

Willow has 6 years of experience supporting people who are learning disabled and autistic to reach their goals and improve their lives. We are different from other groups as our members make the decisions and help plan and run our organisation. We have 5 board members and 2 paid members of staff who are learning disabled or autistic. Our occupational therapist and sports coach are highly skilled at enabling people of all abilities to join in. They have a comprehensive knowledge of the needs of learning disabled and autistic people. Our members asked to form the Croydon Knights, and since its inception during the lockdown in 2000 it has been a lifeline for over 40 people in Croydon.

Focus Areas

Delivery plan

Budget breakdown

Beneficiaries

20 people

Expected impact

Willow’s aim is for people with learning disabilities to have the opportunity to live happy and fulfilled lives. For them to be to be listened to, given the chance to learn and work, and be treated fairly and with respect by everyone. This project will contribute to this aim by securing the following outcomes: 20 people who are learning disabled and/or autistic will improve the following by 20% by 31.12.2022 : physical health self esteem confidence feelings of belonging friendship and support networks increase involvement in activities outside of the project Impact will be measured using questionnaires adapted to be used by people with learning disabilities with a 1-5 point rating, observation, feedback from participants and carers/family, case studies and registers.

Track record

Our football team has grown from 6 participants to over 20. Players who found other disability teams overwhelming feel safe and welcomed, for many it is their only form of exercise or social engagement. Our approach encourages participants to take an active role in decision making and delivery. It has been successful in improving confidence and skills and helping individuals take more control of their lives. One of our players was banned from local disability teams for disruptive and aggressive behaviour. After 5 years with Willow he has transformed his outlook on life and behaviour. He now co-coaches the football team, is our head chef, and has a paid position as team leader in our main program. ‘Don’t give up – look at me, I started Snack Attack and now I’m head chef, dreams do come true’- KD ‘I am proud of what I do, and other people are proud of me’ -TI ‘Willow has helped me believe in myself….and now I can help others. I’m part for a team and I don’t feel lonely anymore' - JT

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