Hope in Haringey alongside partners The Engine Room and Harris Academy Tottenham delivered a weeklong sporting camp for under 18’s interested in Football, Basketball and life skill development.

By Omar Alleyne-Lawler, Communications Manager

The annual ‘Summer Sports Week’ which runs during the school summer holidays, was once again available to Haringey’s young people, this time at Harris Academy, Tottenham.

2023 Summer Sports Week Hosted by Hope in Haringey

The event, which celebrated its third anniversary this year, brought together local sporting professionals, inspirational speakers, and motivated young people for a week-long learning through-play event.

Becoming a hub for young people interested in Football and Basketball, the camp was an opportunity for young people to stay active and out of trouble in what Mayor Khan was warning to be a dangerous time.

This year, that worry was especially acute, with the Mayor’s office issuing warnings that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis would negatively impact youth violence over the summer.

As such, Hope in Haringey once again offered the Summer Sports Week as a free event as part of their diversionary sports youth work. Led by Youth Manager, Andrew Boateng, who is also a football scout for Crystal Palace, the Summer Sports week encouraged participation in young people regardless of their gender, age and skill level.

With 80 young people answering the call, this year’s camp improved on last year’s turnout, showcasing the importance of engaging, safe and fun activities for Haringey’s young people.

Officers from the TSG were happy to speak with HiH’s young people, informing them on how to stay safe across the summer.

Sponsored in part by the Engine Room, the week also engaged young people with Hope in Haringey’s police engagement work. This meant students left the camp informed of their rights during a stop and search, but also how to avoid being recruited by gangs across the summer holidays.

With schools now closed for the summer holidays, Hope in Haringey will take a short recess and close its offices until September 4th. Charity workers will remain contactable should you require information or access to services during this time.