Young people in Islington have proved they’re good sports by holding charity football matches to raise money for Comic Relief.
Young people looked after by Islington Council and Shaftsbury Leaving Care Service played against their social workers at Market Road football pitches. A five-a-side women’s football match kicked off the action. After a well-fought battle, the social workers team Female Workers claimed victory with a four-two win over the girls' team Islington's Best.
The boys were next to show off their skills. The Young Vibes played against a team formed by their male social workers, aptly named Social Workers United. With both sides so equally matched, the game ended in a two-all draw.
The Deputy Mayor of Islington, Councillor Ann Berent attended the event and awarded the winners with certificates, medals and a trophy for the Female Workers. A rematch will be held between the Young Vibes and Social Workers United in the summer to decide which team will take home the men's cup. Councillor Berent said:
“Well done to all the players and especially the Female Workers for their win! It was fantastic to see so many young people involved and I know they'd been training hard in preparation for the matches. The event is a real credit to them and congratulations should also go to those who helped organise the day and raise this money for charity - and to the supporters who braved the rain to come and cheer on the teams!”
Money was raised from the sale of home-made cakes and raffle tickets, prizes for which include a digital camera, a football and a signed photo of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
This is the third year that the football matches have been organised by Islington’s Children’s Active Involvement Service (CAIS). As well as raising money, the event also provides an opportunity for the young people to discuss how they feel about the services and aims to help strengthen the relationships between looked after children and their social workers.
Chris Stewart from CAIS, who organised the event said: "This annual football event in Islington's calendar cements positive working relationships between looked after young people in Islington and their social workers. It also gives the young people a chance to share their views on issues which effect them. Thanks to Young Vibes and Islington's Best and both of the adult teams for once again making this an enjoyable day. Young Vibes, I'm looking forward to our next match!"
ENDS.
Page Last Updated: 12 June 2009