'It's so much more than just a game of football'

Fair Play Football is a group partnership including the NELC, YMCA, Centre 4, Immingham Oasis Academy, Grimsby Town Foundation, Fusion and The Trin

A scheme using football to help young people stay active and tackle issues, like sexual health, will continue for three more years.

FairPlay Football includes training sessions and tournaments which will be held at Clee Fields, West Marsh Academy, Immingham Academy and Grant Thorald Park, for children between the ages of eight and 17.

The project, run by North East Lincolnshire Council (NELC), YMCA, and five other local organisations, will provide youths with a "safe and welcoming space", NELC said.

Kate Conway, CEO of YMCA Humber, said: "This is so much more than football. It's about teaching people teamwork, supporting them when they're struggling and celebrating success with them."

In addition to the weekly training sessions, the project will also hold quarterly tournaments for those aged 12 to 16.

The sessions will also provide workshops for young people looking at knife crime, county lines, internet safety and sexual health.

The council said the scheme, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, will also start incorporating netball tournaments and training sessions over the coming months.

Ann-Marie Matson, director of children's services at the council, said: "There are so many opportunities here for young people, it's what's happening behind the game though, this is not only about playing football.

"There is plenty going on off the pitch too in regard to helping young people's wellbeing, fitness and I'm thrilled to see so many people embracing the initiative."

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