Blackpool FC Community Trust column: Another pathway in place for our younger residents
Blackpool FC Community Trust continues to champion opportunities for young people across the town, with the recent introduction of the Elected Home Educated Hub.
It takes place at Bloomfield Road every Wednesday, running from 10.30am-1pm.
The programme is for 10 to 16-year-olds, who are electively home educated, and includes free weekly sessions, creating a safe space for young people to improve and support them with their confidence, self-esteem, emotional wellbeing and mental health.
The Hub offers something for everyone, with each week including a mixture of fun, creative, physical and technical activities.
These include pool and darts, dodgeball and other sports, gaming, content creation, robotics, Lego, board games and walk and talk sessions, along with other activities suggested by the young participants.
We have also now introduced podcasting to the sessions.
Young people have been learning how to plan, record and produce their own podcasts; an activity that not only sparks creativity but also strengthens speaking, listening and debating skills.
These sessions give participants the chance to explore current topics that matter to them, building confidence, communication and technical skills in the process.
Recently, young people from the Hub attended the Blackpool Careers Fair at the Winter Gardens and gained the chance to meet more than 50 local employers.
This experience helped inspire them to think about future pathways, understand different industries and ask questions directly to professionals across a wide range of sectors.
Thanks to Blackpool Supporters Trust, we were able to invite some of our EHE group to a Blackpool FC home fixture, where they enjoyed an evening of football and fun – and even got to meet Bloomfield Bear.
A parent of one participant said: “My son has gained a pathway for his future. He’s made new friends and gained confidence.
“His mental health has improved and he really appreciates the sessions.
“These sessions have really given him direction in life. He’s been very inspired by attending.”
The Elected Home Educated Hub is committed to offering a safe, supportive environment where young people can feel included to learn, grow and thrive.
If you would like more information about attending the sessions, contact Blackpool FC Community Trust on 01253 348691, email [email protected] or visit their website at bfcct.co.uk