New campaign champions social impact of sport in Wolverhampton The Sport for Change Wolverhampton campaign, led by ConnectSport CIC is using sport as a vehicle to improve wellbeing, build skills and create safer communities. Sport Rony Omar 14:18, 22 Apr 2026 Updated 14:32, 22 Apr 2026 View 2 Images Brightstar supports young people through boxing and mentoring programmes. (Image: Sport for Change Wolverhampton) A new initiative in Wolverhampton aims to highlight how sport is helping to tackle some of the city’s biggest issues, including youth crime and health inequalities. The Sport for Change Wolverhampton campaign, led by ConnectSport CIC, brings together locally-trusted organisations that are using sport and physical activity to support and strengthen communities, and helps to share their stories. It is building a network of community groups, charities and sports organisations that are all working towards a shared goal: improving outcomes for young people and families living in some of the city’s most disadvantaged areas. The programme, which is being supported by the University of Wolverhampton and the Wolves Foundation, highlights a wide range of activities, from football and tennis to wrestling and jiu-jitsu, designed to engage people of different ages and backgrounds. However organisers say the focus is not simply on increasing participation in sport, but on using sport as a vehicle to improve wellbeing, build skills and create safer communities. Content cannot be displayed without consent In areas facing high levels of deprivation, clubs and groups such as AFC Wolves are working directly with young people to provide structured environments and ongoing support. For many of those involved, these sessions offer stability and a sense of belonging that may otherwise be missing. “I wanted to create a space where young people feel a sense of belonging,” said Luke Thompson, chairman of AFC Wolves. “Football is just the hook - it brings them in. But the focus is on mentoring, education and building confidence. In communities facing deprivation and social isolation, that support really matters.” Organisers say programmes like these can help address wider social challenges, including anti-social behaviour and youth crime, by providing safe and consistent activities for young people. They argue that early intervention, positive role models and structured activities can reduce risk factors linked to offending and social exclusion. However, those behind the campaign stress that sport alone is not a solution to deep-rooted social issues. “It’s important to be specific when we talk about sport,” said Simon Lansley, founder and Managing Director of ConnectSport. “It can build confidence, but what really matters is how it’s used. These are targeted interventions, whether that’s improving mental wellbeing or reducing crime, and you have to be clear about the outcome you’re trying to achieve. It’s not a magic wand.” View 2 Images Reel Grappling CIC uses jiu jitsu to support and empower local people across Wolverhampton, including this women and girls' group (Image: Sport for Change Wolverhampton) The campaign also highlights the role of sport in addressing health inequalities, particularly in disadvantaged communities where long-term health conditions are more common. “Diabetes is a huge public health issue, especially in deprived communities,” said Dr Matilda Chongwa, who runs programmes through the Global Diabetes Initiative. “Many people don’t fully understand the condition, or struggle to access support. Through our work, we bring people together, provide education and use physical activity as part of prevention.” She added: “Sport plays a huge role. If we want to prevent diabetes, we have to stay active.” The Sport for Change Wolverhampton campaign also aims to connect communities with services they may not usually access. By working in familiar settings and using trusted community figures, organisers hope to reach people who might otherwise fall through gaps in traditional support systems. As well as physical activity, several programmes offer workshops on mental wellbeing, healthy living and personal development. These sessions aim to build confidence, raise awareness of support services and encourage positive lifestyle choices. Article continues below Eighteen organisations have joined the initiative since its launch in February, with more than 50 expected to join by the end of 2026. Organisers say it is already showing how coordinated, community-led approaches can contribute to long-term change. They believe that combining sport with mentoring, education and health support can create a lasting impact beyond the playing field. Residents can find more information about the organisations involved through the ConnectSport website at connectsport.co.uk. Local organisations keen to join the initiative should email hello@connectsport.co.uk
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