£500,000 Westminster Foundation funding boost for inclusive cricket programmes

The grant will ensure the charity can introduce and deliver a weekly Super 1s hub, and three Wicketz hubs in Westminster, which will not only improve access to cricket for young people facing the challenges of inequality, but also help them lead a healthier lifestyle, improve confidence and feel like they belong.

In addition, a key goal of the partnership is to reduce barriers to employment for participants. By working with local partner organisations, the aim is to equip young people with the skills required to become more independent and employable, and subsequently improve inclusivity and diversity throughout the Westminster business community.

Both programmes, delivered by the charity in conjunction with local county cricket boards and partners, go beyond cricket – they help individuals develop vital life skills that improve confidence and self-esteem, and bring communities together, providing a platform for participants to realise their potential.

The new Westminster Super 1s and Wicketz hubs, will be delivered in partnership with Middlesex County Cricket Board and the MCC respectively - The Super 1s hub will be the first ever disability cricket hub to be hosted at Lord’s, the home of cricket.

The Westminster Foundation is the independent grant making trust and registered charity, representing the charitable interests of The Duke of Westminster and Grosvenor businesses. This latest grant builds on previous support of Super 1s delivery in Cheshire, and the Lord’s Taverners move to the Foundation supported purpose-built co-working space Fivefields, for social impact charities in Victoria.

Kate Brown, Director of the Westminster Foundation, said: “We are delighted to provide long-term support through this partnership grant, using the power of cricket to empower young people with disabilities and from disadvantaged communities. By opening up access to inclusive sport and creating clear pathways into employment, our partnership with Lord’s Taverners will not only bring more young people into the game but also help them build confidence and develop the skills they need to succeed in life and work.”

Mark Curtin, CEO of Lord’s Taverners, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Westminster Foundation for this hugely significant grant. Our shared values of believing in the impact sport can have in bringing communities together and equipping young people with the skills, confidence and knowledge required to fulfil their potential, has been a great launchpad for this partnership.

“This funding will enable us to reach and impact even more young people through cricket over the next five years. The impact our Super 1s and Wicketz programmes have really is life-changing, not just for the young people with a disability and from disadvantaged communities participating, but their families too. A huge thank you on their behalf to the Foundation for your support of our work and helping us bring these programmes to the Westminster community.”