Youth cricket hubs in Peterborough given cash support by crime commissioner

Wicketz is a free community cricket programme delivered by the UK’s leading youth cricket and disability sports charity, the Lord’s Taverners in partnership with Cricket East.

The project inspires young people from deprived areas, who can’t access the game through the formal structures of joining a club, to come together to play cricket while being educated on social issues relevant to their community.

“Although cricket is the ‘hook’, Wicketz teaches young people how to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” explains Lord’s Taverners Head of Fundraising, Dylan Glass.

“Moreover, those taking part in the Wicketz programme benefit from participating in life skills workshops, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe place, as well as training and leadership opportunities and a three day residential trip where young people from Wicketz projects across the country come together through cricket.”

The grant will be used to establish sustainable community hubs, where young people are able to benefit from weekly cricket sessions all year round.

Acting Police and Crime Comissioner, Ray Bisby, said: “Sport is a fantastic tool to help instill confidence in young people and help them feel part of their community. I am pleased to be able to support Wicketz through my Youth and Community fund - by looking after the physical and mental wellbeing of young people, we are able to empower them to become positive citizens.”

The Commissioner’s Youth and Community Fund, now in its 5th year, supports young people to actively participate and contribute where they live, helping them to become active members of their community and lead more fulfilling lives.

The Fund is open to voluntary and community organisations who can apply for grants of up to £3,000 towards their project.