Decathlon and Mayor’s Fund for London launch pilot sports libraries for youth in London

Decathlon UK, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Fund for London charity, is proud to announce the launch of the pilot Activity Libraries project. This initiative aims to bring sports and physical activity to children facing the biggest barriers in London, enhancing the existing Kitchen Social programme under the Mayor’s Fund for London that addresses food insecurity and social isolation during school holidays.

A project made possible by the Decathlon Foundation, the pilot project will benefit 200 children across 10 local community organisations, providing them with access to a variety of sports including boxing, basketball, dodgeball, football, and more. These Activity Libraries will be integrated into existing Kitchen Social hubs, which already provide safe spaces where children can socialise, make new friends, and receive nutritious meals.

“We’re thrilled to support this innovative social project and help vulnerable youth access sports,” said Delphine Bouchereau-Mazillier, a key project team member at Decathlon. “Living in London for five years, I understand the challenges faced by our community and believe this partnership can make a significant impact.”

“With 13 weeks away from school each year, we’re the bridge between term times that keeps young people across the capital growing. This pilot project will ensure that young Londoners facing the biggest barriers, who likely feel anxious about the school holidays, are supported to stay active and engaged, learning key life skills, and experiencing joy like all young Londoners should,’ said John Jones, Kitchen Social Programme Leader.

The results of the pilot campaign will be shared in September, highlighting the impact and success stories from the participating hubs.

Pilot Locations Across London:

• Elays Network Ltd, SW8 3ED
• SmileyArk Kids, DA1 5GN
• Weavers Adventure Playground Association, E2 6HG
• Parentskills2goCIC, SE16 2RU
• Streatham Youth and Community Trust, SW16 6LS
• OurParks, KT2 7AZ
• A.P.P.L.E., W3 7LJ
• Sport at the Heart, NW10 3UN
• The Dalgarno Trust, W10 5QB
• Salaam Peace, E17 8AS

For more information on Social Kitchen, visit: https://www.mayorsfundforlondon.org.uk/food-and-communities/kitchen-social/