Action attainment is a Richmond based community interest company dedicated to supporting neurodiverse children and young people. In an exciting new collaboration, they have partnered with the Brentford Football Club Community Sports Trust and the Kingston University BREAD lab to launch a research study exploring the impact of sport on the wellbeing of neurodiverse children.
This project aims to understand if regular participation in sport can improve focus for schoolwork, physical health and emotional wellbeing. By joining this study, families can help researchers explore how child focussed sports sessions affect neurodivergent people while also gaining skills for a healthy life.
Who is it for
The research team is looking for young people in years seven, eight or nine who meet the following criteria:
- Age and education: Children aged between eleven and fourteen
- Neurodiversity: This includes those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, social communication needs or developmental language disorder. A formal diagnosis is not necessary, and children on the SEN register or with an EHCP are very welcome
- Sporting background: The study is specifically seeking children who are not currently participating in sport outside of school
- Interests: Young people who are interested in developing football skills and looking for new friendships and a sense of community
Even if a child is not eligible for the formal research study, they are still welcome to join the On the Ball football and ball skills sessions held on Saturday mornings.
What is involved
The study is designed to be positive, relaxed and accessible for every family. It includes a ten week football coaching programme run by the Brentford Football Club Community Sports Trust at Richmond Park Academy during the summer term.
Participants will complete an application form. Both parents and children will be asked to fill out questionnaires before and after the programme. There will also be short interviews with the research team. To monitor physical impact, participants will use specialist equipment to track fitness statistics, which is described as ‘training like a professional.’
Benefits for Families
The organisers understand that neurodiverse children can sometimes find joining new activities difficult. This programme is designed to prevent isolation and reopen opportunities for fun and family friendships. As a thank you for taking part, families will receive:
- Entry into a prize draw for four tickets to a Brentford Football Club match at the GTECH Community Stadium
- Access to two parent workshops
- Individualised strategies for each child to help increase focus and concentration
- The opportunity to continue training with peers through Action attainment and Brentford Football Club
All participant information will be kept confidential, stored securely and anonymised in any future reports or publications
How to participate
The sessions will take place at Richmond Park Academy on Saturday mornings during the summer term.
If you are a parent or carer of a young person who might benefit from this opportunity, you can register your interest by completing a brief online form.
Click here to register your interest
Further information
Further information can be obtained by contacting the team at Action Attainment. The email address for enquiries is Tom@action-attainment.com.
Your participation ensures that neurodiverse voices are at the heart of research that aims to improve long term health and social outcomes.
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