Bermondsey estates go head-to-head at football to mark youth project anniversary

As part of a bid to kick start local activities, the council ran a survey of residents in the area that showed they wanted to see more activities for young people.

The South Bermondsey Project - a project involving local people, the council, the police and other groups - then commissioned Millwall Community Scheme (MCS) to run a programme on the estates. Funding has since come from the United St Saviours Charity Fund, which has helped ensure the programme is sustainable until March 2011.

During the last year around 100 young people have had the opportunity to take part in activities such as football, basketball and street dance.

The idea is that participants aged sixteen or older will go on to take the FA Level 1 Coaching Certificate and others will have the chance to be mentors and volunteers in the local community.

Scott Johnson, 23, is one of the MCS coaches at the sessions. As a local resident he says he takes immense pride and satisfaction in working with young people from the area he has grown up.

Speaking ahead of the event, he said: "I really enjoy coaching the young people and observing the steps to improve made by them as their confidence grows after each session. We stress to them the importance of teamwork."

Councillor Abdul Mohamed, cabinet member for Equalities and Community Engagement said: "This borough is lucky to have so many local people making a difference. This project is a great example of residents getting involved with ideas and getting them into action. That really helps improve and uplifts the area."

Councillor Paul Kyriacou, Chair of the South Bermondsey Partnership, said: "Delivering youth activities that cross estate boundaries is what local people in the area want. This tournament is an ideal way to respond to that need and recognise the 25th anniversary of Millwall Community Scheme."

The Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Tayu Situ plus cabinet member for children services Catherine McDonald and cabinet member for resources Richard Livingstone will all also be at the event cheering the youngsters on.

2010 is the 25th anniversary of the Millwall Community Scheme - a charitable trust, formed by the club that works with local young people.

Southwark Council is this month launching a campaign to encourage local people to make a difference in their community - for example through their community council or by volunteering for a local charity.

Event details

Bermondsey Inter Estate 5-a-side Football Tournament
Date: Thursday 24 November 2010
Time: 4 to 6pm
Venue: Avondale Square Ball Court, Old Kent Road, SE1
Cost: FREE
Age Groups: 8-12 & 13-16

Footwear is trainers. Turn up in your team or we can add you to one. If you require any further information then please contact Richard White or Scott Johnson at Millwall Community Scheme on 020 7740 0503.

The Avondale Estate's ball court, Old Kent Road, will play host to a five-a-side tournament featuring teams from Avondale, Bonamy and Bramcote, Sillwood and Tustin estates on Thursday 24 November from 4 to 6pm.