Entitled ‘Playzones’, the spaces aim to uplift the physical and mental health of young people, by providing access to free community football and CITC’s youth-led sessions.
The latest opening event took place at Ladybarn Park in Withington, where the charity has refurbished the council-owned space into a fresh ‘Playzone’.
The event was attended by local school children from Mauldeth Road Primary School, as well as funders, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, local councillors and other stakeholders.
‘PlayzZones’ are purpose built recreational areas, with multi-functional football equipment including various sized football pitches and goals, football tennis zones, passing squares, benches, and floodlights.
Commenting on the day, Head of City in the Community, Michael Geary, said: “We are delighted to see another one of our Playzone sites officially open and celebrate with stakeholders.
“The initiative aims to break down barriers which exist for many people when accessing informal, recreational football.
“By creating free spaces for people for all abilities, we hope that local people can connect through sport, without fear or judgement of safety, all year round.”
CITC previously opened its first ‘Playzone’ at Scotland Hall Road in Newton Heath earlier in the year, with local primary school students and City in the Community Trustee, Nedum Onuoha.
Both ‘Playzones’ have been made possible thanks to funding from:
• Sport England
• City Football Group
• The Premier League, The Football Association and Government’s FootballGovernment’s Football Foundation
Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation said:
“Funding from The Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation has supported the delivery of two fantastic facilities here in Newton Heath, providing more people with a great place to play.
“We know from our experience at the Football Foundation that the benefits of football stretch far beyond the enjoyment people get from playing the game.
“Good quality facilities like this one at Ladybarn Park can have a transformative impact on people’s physical health, mental wellbeing, academic attainment of young people, bringing people together and strengthening local communities.”
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods commented: “Playzone are purpose built recreational areas, which aim to uplift the physical and mental health of young people, by providing access to free football and other sports and activities.
“Spaces like this can address barriers which exist for many people when accessing informal, recreational sport, in turn supporting health, socialisation and confidence.
“The new Playzone in Ladybarn park is free to access and is available for people of all abilities, we hope that local people can use this new asset and connect through sport.”
Scotland Hall Road is located less than two miles away from the Etihad stadium, with Ladybarn Park sitting just over four.
Both sites were selected after a robust research project, which saw the charity consult with councils, residents, Official Supporters Clubs, fans, schools, youth centre, residents, and funders across all Manchester regions.
The Playzones will be free to enjoy 365 days a year for all members of the community.
City in the Community will also deliver its own sessions for city youth, as well as work with local organisations, volunteers and youth groups to utilise the sites.
City in the Community, Manchester City’s charity, empowers healthier lives with Manchester youth through football.
To find out more about its work, visit www.mancity.com/CITC.
