Creating connections to break down barriers to sport

The Wellington City Mission (The Mission) has been facilitating
conversations and creating connections in a bid to break down the barriers to
sport, resulting in the opening of a new Community Sports Bank.

The Mission has been working together with Upper Hutt, Hutt City,
Porirua, Kapiti-Coast District and Wellington Councils, to open the first
Community Sports Bank at The Hub, Poneke.

This will be one of many Sports Banks to open in targeted communities
across the Wellington region.

Poverty in sport is a growing issue in our own backyard with the cost
of subs and fees, equipment and transport being the three main barriers to children,
young people and families being able to access and participate in sport. Says
Ray Tuffin, The Mission’s Community Development Manager.

“The aim of the Community Sports Bank Project is to reduce/eliminate
the cost of equipment for those in need and by this, increase sport
participation and increase activity.

“Poverty consists
of many complexities, with social exclusion being one of them, and as a
consequence, resulting in people and their children becoming vulnerable to
social isolation.

“The lack of income,
resources and confidence often impacts social participation in sport which is
why The Mission are wanting to work collaboratively to break down these
barriers.” Says Ray Tuffin.

Wellington City Council
have jumped on board, as they continue to do work around improving equity in
sport and recreation. Says Ali Whitton, Health and Wellbeing Partnership
Leader.

“All around the world
people are becoming less physically active. We know that not having access to
the right sports gear can often be the reason why children and young people
aren’t able to sign up for or participate in sport and recreation.

“The vision of a region-wide Community Sports Bank is an amazing initiative that could significantly help people in our region continue to participate in the sports they love.” Says Ali Whitton.

ENDS

Media Contact: Kieran Meredith, 027 879 2336