Context of the project: This project supplemented an “innovative” 10-week (6 hours a day/2days a week), work-based training programme that introduced economically inactive and unemployed people to the commercial management of football clubs. The participants involved were taught how to run marketing, coaching & community activities. They acquired accredited qualifications, work experience & skills that not only helped them get a better job, but also increased their general life chances. We strived to develop active citizens that were engaged in their local community. By positioning learning within the context of the sports industry, and the flexible nature to Vi-Ability’s programme, we achieved the commitment from participants who have historically struggled with personal motivation towards learning. This project also further enhanced that learning experience by introducing them to best practice in European Football Clubs. Objectives of the project: The main aim was to: Transform sports clubs into community hubs through the individuals engaged. To achieve this we offered all individuals, regardless of background, the experience of running sports clubs at home and abroad, teaching them key life and employability skills. This created self-belief in individuals, commercial ideas for sports clubs and engaged the wider community. The objectives were to: • Engage individuals residing within disadvantaged & diverse communities • Create a learning environment which was relaxed, secure & exciting; and encouraged higher expectations from all participants • Developed a range of customised training resources that reflected the participant’s interests • Ensured participant’s needs were being met and that new learning/training opportunities were being explored • Developed independent, motivated and confident individuals who were able to access all potential learning, training, & employment opportunities now and in the future • Helped individuals acquire soft skills - becoming effective communicators, and developing personal & interpersonal qualities i.e. integrity/honesty, sociability, and responsibility • Improved the health and well being of individuals by incorporating positive leisure activities into the programme • Introduced inspirational role models to participants Number and profile of participants: All 60 participants were economically inactive or unemployed before enrolling on the programme, over the age of 16 and lived in socially deprived areas. Specifically we targeted individuals who were: NEET aged between 18 & 25 years; over the age of 50; living in supported accommodation; and had challenging behaviour or learning difficulties. Many participants were from families with a history of multi-generational unemployment, homeless, or were early school leavers, and had little or no aspirations in relation to what employment could potentially do for them. The mobility widened their horizons and raised their aspirations, and helped to break this cycle. Description of activities undertaken: A range of services and activities were provided via this mobility programme, these included: Work based pre & supported employment training Work placements at professional clubs in Europe Assistance setting up community programmes Implementation of social action projects e.g. football tournaments Delivery of Accredited customised qualifications Fundraising advice Facility management guidance Individual Coaching and mentoring During the European placement participants: Observed and shadowed Youth Academy coaches Delivered coaching sessions to youth teams Took part in seminars led by sector professionals in major European football clubs. The clubs included Benfica FC, AC Milan, Torino FC, FC Espanyol on nutrition, psychology, commercial development and marketing Went on stadium tours, sightseeing trips and engaged in various cultural activities. Impact and results achieved: When the Erasmus+ project was completed the journey for the participants did not come to an end. This journey witnessed 60 participants develop both as individuals & professionals. Those who were engaged onto our programme whom previously had no skills or qualifications, lacked in confidence, & were long term unemployed; now have a totally different outlook and a renewed sense of hope & belief. They have a much higher level of self-esteem, and possess the skills and qualities they need to seek, remain and progress in future employment, training or education. To date, 56% have secured employment; 30% have entered into Further Education: and 14% are volunteering on a regular basis. As well as the participants benefitting, so did the staff members who worked on the programme, 6 of whom are now better skilled in conducting successful mobilities; while learning from the group and, from what our European partners had to offer.