Katie Critchley, Cambs FA Football Development Manager, said. "Building stronger, safer communities is a huge priority and we are delighted to work in partnership
with Fenland Police and Freedom Leisure. We are in a unique position to be able to use our platform to provide positive diversionary activity for young people.
Kickstart injects a £20k investment countywide to encourage young people into sport. By putting the local grassroots football club at the heart of the community,
we can support participants and give them confidence to use the new skills learned through the coach/referee education package. This is a fantastic opportunity
for young people to get involved in something really positive and away from anti-social behaviour"
Christopher Bryden, Active Communities Manager for Freedom Leisure, said: "As part of our Active Communities plan across Fenland, Freedom Leisure has a commitment
to improving the lives of local residents through leisure. This is an ideal opportunity for young people to get active whilst developing new skills that will stand them
in good stead for the future."
Police Inspector, Ian Lombardo said: "Even though I'm not the biggest football fan, I'm a huge supporter of the Kickstart scheme. The qualifications available will help
to boost the participants confidence in decision making and leadership along with teaching them the importance of team work. These skills will be a great addition to
their CVs ready for when they are applying for further education spaces, apprenticeships or when they are entering the world of full time work. I'm 100% behind
this scheme so much so in fact that I will be volunteering my own time to help out during the sessions as much as I can. I really hope as many young people as
possible take advantage of this opportunity to get fit, make new friends and to do something different on a Friday night".
