Respect4Us ‘Olympics for All’ – Visit 21.3.2013

Report by Kahmal Sealey, Jasmine Roberts Ethan Beckett and Paul Webb

We visited the Respect4Us centre and then travelled to a boxing gym in Attleborough, where we observed and participated in a boxing session, whilst speaking to young people and staff.

Staff –

The staff had prepared a report for us to read on arrival at the project, which showed photos and written descriptions of all the sports they had already participated in. They had taken part in fencing, boxing, football, gymnastics and many more sports which had all been paid for by the YAB funding. The staff had a good relationship with the young people, the behaviour of the young people was often challenging, however the staff always confronted any swearing or poor behaviour straight away. This was good to see considering the young people had been excluded from school and therefore discipline was good. The boxing coach was also excellent at instilling discipline and mutual respect amongst the group. 

Young People –

There was a good atmosphere and an informal environment, we felt staff were in control of the situation at all times. The session was attended by 20 young people, 15 of which joined in with the session. The feedback we received from the young people was overall very positive, they felt they could not function in school environment and that Respect4Us was a place they enjoyed and felt it was a good alternative form of education for them.

Outcomes –

The young people identified ‘Olympics for all’ was giving them new experiences and opportunities to try new activities. It also seemed to give them structure and discipline, keeping them in a positive frame of mind and away from possible negative distractions. We joined in with the session and realised the benefits ourselves, especially around healthy living and lifestyles. We felt it was great that places like Respect4Us exist, as it gives young people another chance at succeeding, despite previous setbacks.

Recommendation –

It seems the money has been spent well and effectively. The activities and sports are ones that young people wouldn’t usually try and we liked that Repect4Us offered these, using London 2012 as a platform. We would recommend them receiving additional funding to continue to offer these unique experiences.