The Community Club Fund, from Heart Of Bucks and Leap, contributes towards the fees (in full or in part) for participants who struggle to cover fees and would leave as a result. We spoke to just some of the clubs and organisations who received funding to hear about the difference it has made to their members:

The Fund helped All People Active’s Fun Fitness 4 Women to stay open for an additional 12 weeks and not having to exclude any participants because they couldn’t afford to attend. It gives unemployed women in Milton Keynes the opportunity to be active, healthy and happy. This was a really important support to the women, as Fun Fitness 4 Women was their only activity session that they managed to attend every week.

MK Breakers Basketball Club have a philosophy and values which are based entirely on the Milton Keynes community base. The Club Community Fund subsidies formed part of these values by:

  • Where children were identified who would like to continue to play following their free trial but unable to afford it, the club supports them on a case by case basis.
  • Where current members families suffer unemployment, Mk Basketball Club offer a £5 a month membership until their familes enter employment again.

Peter, founder and chairman, said “For a lot of these children, this is their only “escape” and we offer a safe , stable and regular environment for them to enjoy themselves, get social contact and improve their health , fitness and self confidence.”

Supporting players whose families were finding it tough financially to continue paying hockey through the 23/24 season was a priority for Amersham and Chesham Hockey Club. They could help them become better hockey payers and build friendships outside school.

It was an important part of their desire to become a diverse and inclusive club. Like most grassroots clubs, their financial situation is closely linked to the size of their membership. This grant helped them keep match fees and membership fees as low as possible.

MK Mavericks Futsal Club used the funds for their Under 10 players. They supported a whole group of 10 players and reduced the registration cost for them from £80 to £30. It helped the younger players to commit for another block of 12 sessions and matches without a big financial impact. Their coach said:

“This had a great impact on the club as we were able to still cover our expenses (venues, coaches, equipment, etc.) while providing a very cheap option for our young members of the clubs to continue to stay active in our activities.”

 

There are still some funds available. If you think your club or organisation members would be helped by the funding (maximum of £500) please see the Community Club Funding page.