"Street" clubs help Chance to Shine grow cricket in deprived areas

Charity's work helps young people including refugees

CHARITY FEATURE

Imagine a space in which young people can come together weekly to learn cricket and life skills free of charge, in an inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment. This is the concept of 'Street' clubs, operated by the national charity, Chance to Shine.

Engaging thousands of people aged 8–24 in underserved areas throughout the UK, Street clubs are grassroots initiatives that offer regular, year-round activities. These clubs provide access to professional coaching, core skill development and participation in informal matches. Crucially, sessions are open to all. 

Run in spaces from youth clubs to places of worship, Street clubs require no special equipment, breaking down the cost barrier associated with traditional clubs. A significant portion of Street club players come from economically disadvantaged areas, where youth inactivity is higher and access to sporting opportunities limited. This year sees the number of Street clubs operational nationwide push over 300 for the first time, and with them comes real opportunity to make an impact.

A club at the forefront of this is the Brent Young Adults Street Club, which has proved a valuable safe space for young refugees. The club offers a sanctuary where young people, predominantly from Afghanistan, find a sense of belonging through the universal language of sport and a shared love of cricket.

Sajeewa, a coach at the club, notes: "I think whatever happens at home, it feels like they leave that behind, come here, have a good time, and escape from whatever struggles they have."

A key aspect of Street clubs is cultural understanding. Coaches are embedded in and representative of the communities in which they work. Sajeewa’s ability to speak both Hindi and English facilitates better communication at the sessions in Brent, but his role extends beyond cricket expertise. Sajeewa adds: "It’s more than just coaching, it’s like being someone of character they can look up to."

For young individuals in Brent and beyond, these sessions are transformative. They harness the power of sport and make cricket accessible to all.

Find out more about Street cricket and how you can support Chance to Shine by clicking here.

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