Disability Cricket for children age 5-11 years

by Helen Hawley Hughes in Manchester, England, United Kingdom

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Dedicated cricket sessions for children 5-11 supporting a range of disabilities, providing vital physical and mental benefits through sport.

by Helen Hawley Hughes in Manchester, England, United Kingdom

 donated match funding
BA Better World Community Fund is providing live match funding

About Us

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Lancashire Cricket Foundation is the official charity of Lancashire County Cricket Club, dedicated to using the transformative power of cricket to promote social good and strengthen community ties. Our mission is to ensure that cricket is accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, background, or ethnicity. We believe that cricket can serve as a powerful tool for building connections and enhancing lives, and we are committed to reaching individuals across Lancashire and Greater Manchester who can benefit from our diverse range of programmes.

The Need

Lancashire Cricket Foundation are committed to ensuring that cricket is inclusive and accessible to all. A key focus of our efforts is to expand our disability cricket programme, which currently serves individuals aged 12 and older. We recognise that this age is too late for many, and we want to bridge the current gap. Our new programme will introduce engaging, safe, and supportive cricket sessions for children with disabilities aged 5-11, an age group which currently lacks dedicated activities.

A group of people playing pool  Description automatically generatedOur project seeks to provide inclusive and accessible cricket opportunities to younger children with disabilities, promoting not only physical activity but also social inclusion and personal development. Recent statistics indicate that the proportion of children with disabilities has nearly doubled over the past decade, increasing from 6% in 2011/12 to 11% in 2021/22. In response to this pressing need, we are determined to establish programmes that allow disabled children to participate from an early age, nurturing a lifelong love for the game.

By creating cricket sessions specifically tailored for younger children with disabilities, we aim to connect with this underserved group during a crucial stage of their development. Our programme will provide these children with the opportunity to learn and develop essential cricket skills, boost their physical fitness, and enhance their confidence and self-esteem.

This project represents a significant and much-needed expansion of our disability cricket offerings. By building on the existing success of our programmes, we are establishing a seamless pathway for children with disabilities to continue their cricket journey and experience the many benefits the sport has to offer.

Our plan to expand our disability cricket programme for children aged 5-11 was developed in close collaboration with community members. We believe that those who live and work within the community have the best understanding of its needs and aspirations. Through our talks with parents, teachers, disability organisations, local sports clubs, and community leaders, we identified a clear lack of accessible and inclusive cricket programmes for this specific age group. The community expressed a strong desire for opportunities that would allow children to engage in cricket, highlighting the positive impact such programmes could have on their physical, social, and emotional well-being.

Why disability cricket is important.

Disability Cricket has so many benefits to participants of which include:

Inclusivity and Accessibility: A dedicated disability programme ensures cricket is inclusive and accessible to all, encouraging children to participate and instilling a sense of belonging.

Physical and Mental Health: Engaging in cricket at a young age promotes physical fitness and mobility while also positively impacting mental health by reducing feelings of isolation and anxiety. The camaraderie and social interactions fostered through team participation significantly enhance mental well-being.

Social Integration: By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, disability cricket helps break down barriers, fostering understanding and acceptance. Our existing disability cricket programme has seen participants form lasting friendships, which is especially valuable for those facing social isolation.

Skill Development: Participation in disability cricket helps children to develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, discipline, and resilience. These skills are beneficial not only in sports but also in various life areas, including education and employment.

Pathways to Competition: Early participation in cricket can open doors to higher levels of competition, including regional, national, and international opportunities. This progression helps cultivate role models within the community and inspires younger participants to pursue their sporting ambitions.

Raising Awareness: Disability cricket plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. By showcasing their talents on the field, participants challenge stereotypes and contribute to creating a more inclusive society.

Creating a Lasting Legacy: Supporting disability cricket allows us to build a legacy that champions inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports for generations to come.

How You Can Help

To bring our vision to life, we need to secure £2,000. This funding will enable us to purchase essential equipment, ensuring that our sessions are engaging, enjoyable, and inclusive for every child. High-quality equipment will enhance the experience and provide long-term usability.1738667186_d373d5d5-d5d4-46b1-8e1c-6f4aea10ba92.jpeg

Any additional funding would allow us to hire indoor cricket facilities during inclement weather and throughout the winter months. continuity is essential, as it ensures that children can play year-round, maximising their engagement with the sport and the associated benefits.

Your support can be transformative in making a significant difference in the lives of these young people. Together, we can launch their sporting journeys and create pathways for their future development. By investing in these programs, you help lay the foundation for a brighter future where cricket serves as a force for good, empowering individuals and uniting communities in their shared love for the game.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

With your support, we can ensure that no child is left behind and that every young person, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of playing cricket. Your contribution will not only provide essential resources but will also send a powerful message that inclusivity and accessibility in sports matter.

Whether through financial support, volunteering your time, or helping us spread the word about our initiatives, every action counts. Together, we can create an environment where children with disabilities can thrive, build friendships, and develop a lifelong passion for cricket.

Join Us

We invite you to join us in this important mission. Let us work together to create a future where every child has the chance to play, learn, and grow through cricket. Your involvement can help transform lives and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Thank you for considering supporting the Lancashire Cricket Foundation and our vision for a more inclusive cricketing landscape. Together, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that cricket continues to be a sport that brings everyone together.

For more information on Lancashire Cricket Foundation, our many programmes and volunteering opportunities please find out more at https://foundation.lancashirecricket.co.uk.

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