World Class Athletes to Mentor Young People in Swindon

A group of young people facing disadvantage in Swindon will be mentored by world class athletes, as part of a transformational programme led by the charity of double Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes.

Get on Track is the flagship programme of Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, which trains and develops world class athletes to empower young people facing disadvantage. This enables them to take control of their own futures and contribute positively within their local communities.

The community-based personal, social and emotional development programme will start on 25th July at Swindon Rugby Club and will be led by Grant Turner, Former GB Olympic Swimmer and Chris Weale, ex Goalkeeper. The sessions – run over a 14-month period – will help young people to realise the attitudes and behaviours needed to make long term positive life choices.

Last year the programme was delivered in 62 areas of the UK and over two thirds who took part were in employment, education or training within five months of starting the programme.

The charity works with young people who are most in need of help, including those who are long-term unemployed, care leavers, homeless people, young offenders, women at risk of sexual exploitation and those living within isolated communities.

Grant Turner, Former GB Olympic Swimmer and Dame Kelly Holmes Trust athlete mentor, said: “We believe as a charity that every young person – no matter what their background or current circumstances – has the potential to lead a positive life. I can’t wait to start working with the young people on our Swindon Get On Track programme and to be able to support them to reach their full potential.

“Our programmes are proven to have a lasting impact – the short-term successes achieved, such as moving into employment or achieving in education, only represent the start of their journey – it’s also about empowering them to lead a healthy lifestyle, contribute within their communities and take others with them on their journey.”

Richard Snook, Area Development Manager, added: “Our programmes are only ever delivered by Trust-trained athletes who have reached a world class level in their sport. This group are naturally high performing and proven to be exceptional leaders for change in young people and communities.

“We’re really looking forward to working with Wiltshire & Swindon Sport and Inner Flame for the first time to transform the lives of young people who need our support most.”

Steve Neale, Operations Director for Wiltshire & Swindon Sport, added: “As the County Sports Partnership, we are delighted to be running the first Get on Track programme in county, and in Swindon. We have worked hard alongside all key partner organisations, including Great Western Railway our main sponsor to make this happen. Together we intend to put on an inspirational and rewarding programme for the young people involved.

David Wreathall, Founder and Trustee of Inner Flame, added: “All Inner Flame’s programmes are aimed at helping young people develop the confidence and attitudes to succeed in their goals. This is a perfect way to do that, learning from the mindset of an Olympic athlete.”

Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of GWR said:

“We are committed to improving the journeys of our passengers, as well as the economic prosperity and social footprint of the regions and communities we serve.

“We had many responses from those in our communities looking for help, and I am delighted we have awarded the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust with £31,627.”