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Foundation receives further funding to support Ipswich hub

The Foundation are pleased to announce further funding from Suffolk Community Foundation through the Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner’s Fund. 

Since opening in June 2021, the Foundation’s Ipswich hub, which supports young people in the region through its Engage programme, has support 20 students from nine schools who are disengaged from mainstream education as well as becoming the home of the Northampton Saints Community team’s Suffolk-based activities.   

Supported originally by a grant funded by Suffolk Community Foundation through the Suffolk Police & Crime Commissioner's Fund, the Foundation are thrilled to receive further support for the next academic year. 

The funding is restricted to support the salary costs of the Programme Lead and Student Mentor who operate from the Ipswich Hub, based at the rugby club, who play a crucial role in raising the confidence and self-esteem of young people. As part of the funding the Foundation commit to work with a minimum of 20 young people who are from the most disengaged demographic with at least 75% returning to education or employment.

Tim Passmore, Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said “Sport is a great leveller and as a referee I see that each week on the rugby pitch. I have been really impressed by the work being carried out by Northampton Saints Foundation at Ipswich Rugby Club and pleased my office has been able to financially support this innovative project. I can see that reducing school exclusions and preventing youngsters descending into a life of crime, will lower demand on the police. I’m convinced most problems these young people are facing can be overcome.  I for one believe we should never write any young person off, in most cases a bit of investment – in both time and money – pays off. Well done and a huge thanks to all involved – you are making a real difference!"

Ben Renshaw, Programme Lead at Northampton Saints Foundation added “The Engage programme has had a huge impact on the young people in Ipswich since opening its doors. Through a number of physical activities, workshops and creative sessions participants are able to escape from the challenges they face and learn the tools they need to break down the barriers with the aim to reintegrate back into mainstream school. The funding allows the hub to improve the lives of more young people and get them on the pathway to a positive future”.

To find out more about our Engage programme, or if you would like to make a referral please email [email protected].

Ipswich