The Arsenal Foundation has helped to fund Centre 404’s after-school sports activities for children with learning disabilities and autism. Centre 404’s Tracy Seymour tells us about the sessions before we hear from one of the participants
“I’ve worked in the charity sector for over ten years, and my wider career has included roles in both local and central government – working with the Department of Health and in education – as well as in large multinational commercial organisations. These diverse experiences have shaped my understanding of public service, policy, and corporate strategy, but what truly drew me to Centre 404 – and what has kept me here – is the meaningful, daily impact we have on people’s lives. Every day, we support individuals and families in practical, powerful ways, and that sense of purpose is incredibly rewarding.
“Centre 404 is a long-established charity based in north London that supports children and adults with learning disabilities and autism. We offer services including supported housing, social and leisure opportunities, day opportunities, play schemes, after-school clubs and information, advice and family support.
“Our aim is to promote inclusion and independence, and to ensure that people with learning disabilities have equal access to experiences, opportunities and support networks in their communities.
“Thanks to funding from The Arsenal Foundation, we were able to deliver a nine-week programme of after-school sports activities for children aged eight to 13 as part of our Juniors Club. The sessions included football, basketball, yoga and multi-sports, with the goal of making physical activity more accessible to children who often face barriers to participation. Many of the children we work with are at greater risk of health issues related to inactivity, and this project helped us take practical steps to address that. The sessions also offered opportunities to learn about healthy eating and lifestyle choices in a fun, supportive setting. Importantly, we provided transport through a dedicated driver and escort to make sure children could attend safely and reliably.
“The response from the children was incredibly positive. We saw some real changes in how they approached physical activity – children who were reluctant to join in at first began to look forward to the sessions each week. One child, who usually finds it difficult to engage in group settings, started taking the lead in warm-up exercises and encouraging others. It was fantastic to watch friendships forming, energy levels rising, and confidence building over the course of the project.
“Football clubs have such a strong presence and voice in their communities, and it’s inspiring when that platform is used to support inclusion and wellbeing. Arsenal’s involvement in projects like ours sends a clear message that everyone matters, and that sport and community go hand in hand. We're extremely grateful for the support, which enabled us to remove barriers and open up new opportunities for children who are so often overlooked in mainstream provision.”
Jeremiah, 12, is a local youngster who has enjoyed taking part in Centre 404’s after-school sessions…
“I am an intelligent, articulate boy who tries his hardest when it comes to being successful. I really like transport, especially buses. I learn about bus operators and their history through books and souvenirs, as well as YouTube and social media.
“I am in the middle child with two brothers. I live with my parents and we visit church every Sunday as we are Christians. In my free time, if I have completed enough homework, I enjoy playing games on my PlayStation and on my phone.
“I really wanted to go to Centre 404 to experience different things as they accept who you are and allow you to have fun with social activities.
“I particularly enjoyed multi-sports and boxing. I also enjoyed playing indoor activities such as hoopla, darts and sports on the immerse projector, which has a huge variety of games with multiple difficulties, and also plays music.
“All of the staff at Centre 404 are respectful and engaging. They really give us supportive advice that pushes us forward rather than forceful advice that would just bring us down. It has been an amazing experience because it has given me a higher level of mental health and helped my social skills.
“My hopes for my future are to get a degree and move onto my career. I would like to be an engineer when I am older.
“I am not really a person who watches football or sport, so I am not really a football fan, but I like that Arsenal has helped me to gain some independence and is encouraging people to be fitter and healthier.”
For more information visit [centre404.org.uk](https://centre404.org.uk/).
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