Youth Well-Being through Sports & Dance
Youth Well-Being through Sports and Dance (24 Months)
Location: Merky FC HQ
Duration: 24 months
Participants: Young people aged 9-18 from Croydon
Sessions: Weekly – Football & Dance Fit
This programme promotes youth well-being by combining sports and dance with structured mental health support. Sessions run every Thursday, with football from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM and Dance Fit from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Across both activities, participants receive a total of four hours of active engagement per week.
Wrap-Around Mental Well-Being Support
Each session incorporates structured emotional and mental well-being support. This includes pre- and post-session emotional check-ins lasting 30 minutes, as well as one-on-one mentoring for participants who need additional guidance. Mentors are also trained in safeguarding and mental health first aid, ensuring immediate support when needed.
Beyond in-person support, the programme offers flexible online check-ins for participants who require further assistance between sessions. These include scheduled video or chat-based well-being check-ins, monthly goal-setting meetings, and an emergency support line for urgent concerns.
Staffing and Mentorship
The programme is supported by a dedicated team, including:
Three Mentors (one Lead Mentor and two Support Mentors) providing emotional check-ins, mentoring, and safeguarding support.
Two Football Coaches delivering physical and emotional guidance through football.
One Dance Instructor integrating movement with emotional resilience training.
Community Engagement and Life Skills Development
In addition to physical activity and mental well-being support, the programme emphasizes personal development. Life skills such as emotional regulation, teamwork, and discipline are embedded into each session.
To reinforce progress and celebrate achievements, the programme hosts quarterly community events, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening social connections. Each event runs for four hours and involves all mentors, coaches, and participants.
Impact and Commitment
By integrating sports, dance, and well-being initiatives, this programme provides a holistic approach to youth development. Over 24 months, participants benefit from a structured, supportive environment that enhances their physical and mental health, builds resilience, and equips them with essential life skills.
