The Personal Best Foundation is excited to announce it has been awarded a £5,000 grant from the Zurich Community Trust to support a new pilot initiative in Birmingham aimed at transforming young lives through athletics.

This funding will help the Foundation deliver an inclusive community athletics programme with the aim of reaching children aged 5 – 11years from Black and Asian communities in Birmingham, who are among the least likely to participate in regular physical activity. These children often face a range of social, economic and cultural barriers to participation, especially in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the city.

Research shows that there has been no long-term growth in activity levels among these ethnic groups, meaning the gap between their activity levels and those of other backgrounds has widened steadily over the past five years (since academic year 2017–18). By providing opportunities for these children and young people to achieve their personal best on the track, in school, and in life, the programme seeks to address this imbalance head-on.

The pilot is designed to increase access to physical activity, foster a love of movement and improve both mental and physical well-being all while addressing issues of social equity. The programme reflects a shared vision between Zurich Community Trust and the Personal Best Foundation to create brighter futures for vulnerable young people and champion equal opportunities for all.

Amy Weaver Tyler, Foundation Manager at the Personal Best Foundation.

"We’re incredibly grateful to the Zurich Community Trust for this support. It is a significant step towards our vision of making athletics accessible to all young people, regardless of background," "This partnership will help us provide a safe and supportive environment where children can develop fundamental movement skills, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love for physical activity."

Jane Boulton, UK Manager at Zurich Community Trust, added,

"We are proud to support the Personal Best Foundation's efforts to promote physical activity and mental well-being among young people in underserved communities. This initiative aligns with our commitment to social equity and creating brighter futures for vulnerable individuals."

Reference: *Sport England Active Lives Children and Young People 2022/23