“There’s strong evidence that taking part in sport improves health, with associated economic benefits”
“Research found that low-to-moderate physical exercise, even in a single session, can reduce anxiety”
(Active Londoners)
Active Londoners funding is a key part of the Mayor’s Sport Unites programme. The fund tackles inactivity by supporting individuals and organisations who use sport and other kinds of physical activity to improve the physical and mental health of Londoners.
The Caridon Foundation was one of hundreds of organisations who applied for funding, of which just a handful were successful. We are proud to have been chosen. The money we have been awarded (£5000) has enabled CF to run a 12-week Football scheme for people with mental health and substance misuse issues. We are working in Partnership with Crystal Palace.
“We work with south Londoners to help them make healthy, positive and safe choices now, and in the future. We are proud of how our unique position in the community helps us inspire individuals to make long lasting changes to their lives”
(Crystal Palace for Life Foundation)
So far 20 individuals have taken part in the scheme, which runs for 2 hours every Wednesday afternoon at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre. The project aims to improve fitness, but also mood, self confidence and self-esteem
CF are also pleased to be working in partnership on this project with Croydon Commitment (founded in 2004 to help Croydon businesses to achieve the best value and impact from business corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities to benefit local people and the environment). Croydon Commitment will be hosting two day long training sessions the project participants, offering advice, guidance and information on all aspects of Healthy Lifestyles and Employability (including CV writing skills, interview techniques, confidence building etc)
Active Londoners “support Londoners with mental health difficulties”. We designate a portion of our funding to projects that use sport and physical activity to help people deal with, overcome, or foster greater understanding of mental health difficulties. These include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety or issues caused by addiction and/or substance abuse’.
Active Londoners Research also shows taking part in sport, and spectating, have a positive impact on the wellbeing and happiness of individuals
“I have been taking part in the scheme since the beginning. I am already feeling fitter and losing some weight and my mood is good”!
Mark Watson (CF Tenant)