Giving a sporting chance to children is the aim of the Play it Forward Fund – and it’s back for a fourth year with £50,000 on offer to grassroots clubs in Cumbria.
Run by Fibrus Broadband, the initiative aims to encourage youngsters to switch off their devices, go outdoors and get active to boost their health and wellbeing.
Since its launch in 2023, the fund has handed out £60,000 to 60 non-profit voluntary groups and charities running children’s sports projects and initiatives across Cumbria.
Grassroots sports clubs can apply for up to £1,000 from this year’s pot to buy new kits, equipment or improve club facilities.
Last year, Carlisle Riding for the Disabled, at Blackdyke Riding School, was among those awarded a grant which it used to replace worn-out riding equipment.
The group, which is part of a national charity and is run by volunteers, has provided riding lessons to disabled children and adults for 54 years and currently supports more than 40 under-18s.
Riding helps improve balance, coordination, muscle development and confidence, while also offering social interaction and a sense of independence.
The youngsters who visit the riding school build a close bond with the horses. Some of the children go on to take part in riding competitions.
Volunteer Leanne Dobson said: “What we do here is very special so we’re hugely grateful to Fibrus for their generous support.”
Other clubs in Cumbria that have been supported by the scheme include Aspatria Football Club, Carlisle Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling Club, Flimby Vikings ARLFC, Penrith Canoe Club and Carlisle Trampoline Club.
The Play it Forward Fund is also open to groups in Northern Ireland and has supported a total of 152 organisations since its launch.
Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, said: “It is important that we, as a broadband provider, recognise our responsibility to ensure children live balanced lives and have opportunities to stay fit, healthy and active away from screens.
“We’re looking forward to receiving applications from people doing great work for children in the communities we serve, so we at Fibrus can do our bit to support them.”
The next round of Play It Forward funding is now open and will close at noon on Friday, June 12.
Sports Clubs across Cumbria can apply to the fund via www.fibrus.com/play-it-forward-fund
