A sports centre that provides the community with so much more

Published: 18 November, 2010

TALACRE sports centre is not just a place to go and play sport and develop physical skills, as important as these are. 

There is a huge amount of community support and outreach work going on that has significant benefit, and which works because  the staff have local knowledge and experience that has taken time to develop.

They work with young people and the wider community in schools, on projects based in estates, after-school and half-term activities, and in conjunction with agencies such as the youth and justice services.

This kind of quiet work over the years means that they are very aware of issues such as disaffection in local youngsters and gang culture, and have a significant role in mentoring young people. Many youngsters have been supported into employment, further education or training through programmes that run at Talacre.  

In a climate of cutbacks a serious question should be  asked: Will a private contractor support such education and outreach work, and will they do it so well? 

If pennies are to be counted then what is the benefit to council tax payers of Camden of having these community and outreach schemes?  

How much money is being saved by steering young people towards a positive future with prospects and away from the youth culture that can lead to crime or disaffection?

DAVID COLLINS
Tollington Park, N4