Children and young people invited to Croydon’s free Multi-Sport SEND Festival

Croydon Council and Access Sport will host its annual festival of sport for disabled children and young people, at New Addington Leisure Centre on Thursday 19 February.

The free event will offer taster sessions for people aged five to 25 in a variety of sports – from rebound therapy, which uses trampolines to improve movement and balance to inclusive dance, boccia, football and more.

Parents or carers of those who would like to take part in the festival should register their interest here.

The festival will be more than just a sports event. It is a community gathering for young people and their families to explore sport in a supportive and inclusive environment. The goal is simple, yet powerful: help young people discover a sport they love and encourage them to continue participating long after the event.

The festival forms part of the Council’s RAP disability sports programme and Access Sport’s Changing Places London work. It is run in partnership with Better and local organisations such as Palace for Life Foundation.

Children and young people with disabilities who enjoy the taster sessions are welcome to sign up for the RAP programme’s regular sessions and courses. Watch this short video for a taster of what the programme offers.

Parents and carers of those who have attended RAP have great things to say about the programme. Felicia is the parent of Cameron, 22, who attends RAP sessions. She said: “Cameron likes doing sports, so whenever RAP is happening he wants to go. He enjoys racket sports, like tennis, and basketball and he enjoys being able to try new things. He has also had the opportunity to take part in the London Youth Games and did well – he got a gold medal!”

Lily has been taking her 16-year-old daughter, Sydney, to RAP clubs for seven years. She said: “My daughter absolutely enjoys the activities – she enjoys the social aspect as well. The coaches help her to grow. For us as a family it means a lot. While she is swimming, I can go to the gym and that gives me the strength that when she comes out, I can take care of her and support her in the best way.”

Croydon is home to one of the largest under-19 populations in London, and supporting young people to thrive is a key priority for Executive Mayor Jason Perry. Providing access to inclusive sporting opportunities plays a vital role in achieving this and in building a healthier, more active borough.

Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry said: “Croydon is proud to champion inclusion and opportunity for all our young people. Our annual festival of sport is a fantastic way for children and young adults with disabilities to discover new activities, build confidence, and have fun. Through programmes like RAP, we’re breaking down barriers and creating a healthier, more active borough where every young person can thrive.”

The RAP programme has a strong track record of success. In May, a Croydon team competed in the London Youth Games Para Swimming Gala. All swimmers won medals, including a team silver for the boys.

In August, the RAP disability sports programme was recognised as Club of the Month by Every Body Moves, Paralympics GB’s grassroots participation initiative, celebrating its commitment to inclusion and excellence.

Take part in the festival by Registering your interest here.

Find out more about the RAP disability sports programme.

Find out more about Access Sport.