As well as organising programmes of physical, educational and other activities for the young people of Tulse Hill and Brixton, The St. Matthew’s Project is committed to supporting and developing our young people beyond simply participating in our activities. Our coaches are recruited from within the local community, the majority of whom have come through the scheme themselves (including ex-gang members), who can then act as inspiring and positive role models to the participants. The opportunity to volunteer within the Project also allows them to become qualified coaches themselves.

We have developed over 250 F.A qualified coaches from levels 1 to 3 (UEFA B). Our current coaches have also recently taken part in trauma training, which enables them to recognise when a child or young person is displaying signs of trauma and take the first steps towards helping them to deal with it.  This ensures that we are best placed to help young people overcome any barriers they face at the earliest possible opportunity, thus helping to improve their long-term outcomes.

Once certified and enhanced DBS checked our young coaches start out volunteering before being provided with paid, part-time opportunities to deliver the sessions they once enjoyed participating in themselves. This is just one of the ways we are giving back to our community.