LFC Foundation's Kicks programme inspires youngsters
LFC Foundation teamed up with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service to deliver educational workshops to local youngsters this summer.
Twenty-four participants from the Premier League Kicks Football+ programme attended two three-day courses, aimed at addressing the key issues facing young people, helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and encouraging long-term personal development.
The interactive workshops focused on life skills, healthy living, personal safety, and drug and alcohol awareness, as well as offering guidance and positive messaging from LFC Foundation and MFRS staff.
Tony Cosgrove, LFC Foundation project lead, said: “These activities and educational workshops are vitally important to ensure further engagement with our PL Kicks participants.
“Using the power of the LFC badge and working with our experienced local alliances like Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service allows us to teach the young people essential life skills and raise their personal aspirations even further.”
Day one saw the youngsters attend an interactive road safety workshop delivered by MFRS staff, which was followed by a day of cooking and nutrition lessons courtesy of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.
Finally, the groups visited the Maritime Museum for a drug, alcohol and weapons awareness session as part of its ‘Seized!’ gallery, which focuses on the work of Customs and Border Force.
“The nutrition sessions have been a new addition to the programme this summer and they’ve really helped the participants in their understanding of healthy eating and the importance of a balanced diet,” added Cosgrove.
“Working alongside experienced chefs and having the opportunity to get hands-on in the kitchen has not only been great fun for the young people, but incredibly rewarding as well.
“This summer’s participants have benefited enormously from all aspects of the course. While we engage with many young people through our regular weekly football sessions, these alternative activities and educational workshops allow further growth and personal development which inspires them to aim for more positive futures.”