As we step into the New Year, the Personal Best Foundation is thrilled to announce ATF (Achieve Thrive Flourish) as a new delivery partner in South Essex - a fantastic opportunity to make a huge impact on children and young people in the area.
About ATF
The goals and objectives of ATF align perfectly with our charity’s mission, and this partnership represents an exciting chance to explore a new model of delivery that will broaden access to athletics and physical activity.
Since 2012, ATF has been working to help under-served children, young people and families in communities at risk of exclusion across South Essex, UK to achieve, thrive and flourish. Providing a range of sessions in safe environments, that increase opportunity, aspiration and achievement, as well as positive relationships, enhanced confidence and wellbeing.
In 2025 ATF were awarded The Kings Award for Voluntary Service an accolade which celebrates the outstanding work of local volunteer groups across the UK. The award is the equivalent to an MBE, and is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK and they are awarded for life.
Ready to launch
Over the Christmas period, 11 ATF staff members completed funetics training, equipping them with the skills to deliver high-quality athletics sessions for 4-11year olds. Some of these staff will lead the newly funded after-school hub at Briscoe Primary School, Southend, which is set to launch shortly and will run for 39 weeks during term time.
The remaining trained staff will roll out funetics across seven other ATF sites in South Essex, ensuring a wide-reaching impact for children and young people who may not have previously had the opportunity to experience athletics.
This initiative marks the beginning of an exciting chapter - one that promises to inspire, engage, and empower communities through sport.
Stuart Long from ATF said
This is such an exciting opportunity for ATF we are proud to be supported by the Personal Best Foundation. This project will enable athletics to support under served communities across South Essex, helping to build resilience and raise aspirations.
Amy Murtagh, Programme Manager at the Personal Best Foundation, said:
“We’re really excited to be launching in South Essex for the first time through our partnership with ATF. Their deep roots in the community and shared commitment to supporting children most at risk of inactivity make them an ideal delivery partner. By establishing a new after-school hub in Southend and integrating funetics into the other existing ATF programmes, we’re able to introduce athletics to new communities and create positive, lasting experiences for children and young people.”