More than 80 families from the most deprived areas in Wigan and Leigh will benefit from healthier lifestyles thanks to a £47,000 grant from West Lancashire Freemasons to the Wigan Athletic Community Trust.
The grant will fund the Kids on the Move program, supporting children aged 2-5 years in developing their fundamental physical, social, and emotional skills through various engaging activities. Parents and caregivers will also receive support and access to local services to promote healthier living.
Based on the Early Years Foundation Statutory Framework (EYFS), the program aims to help children reach crucial developmental milestones. It will focus on all aspects of child development, ensuring the best possible start in life both in and out of primary school.
Beginning in early 2025, Kids on the Move will host two weekly sessions at community hubs in disadvantaged areas of Wigan and Leigh. The 50-week annual program will offer families activities including playtime, arts and crafts, and educational workshops. Parents and caregivers will receive additional support through sessions on financial management, budget-friendly healthy cooking, and access to job training.
The program was developed collaboratively with families and health professionals to address specific local community challenges.
A survey of 35 local families revealed the severe impact of the cost-of-living crisis, with 80% reporting negative effects on family wellbeing, mental health, and ability to provide nutritious meals and warm homes. Wigan Council research indicates that 54% of local households live in poverty.
Children in impoverished areas face higher risks of excess weight, tooth decay, and delayed language and problem-solving skills. The Trust aims to minimize these long-term effects through the Kids on the Move program.
The initiative builds upon successful previous six-week programs in early-year settings, expanding to provide more targeted, family-focused support for multi-generational impact.
Wigan Athletic Community Trust, the official charity of Wigan Athletic Football Club, supports over 14,000 people annually through various projects focused on schools, community development, and skills training. The Trust works to increase sports participation, promote healthy lifestyles, enhance youth aspirations, and improve community cohesion.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation, supported by Freemasons, their families, and friends across England, Wales, and the Channel Islands, provided the grant through West Lancashire Freemasons.
Greg Hardman, Schools Manager at Wigan Athletic Community Trust said: "Thanks to the generous support from West Lancashire Freemasons, we're able to expand our outreach to young children and their families within our local community. We understand the power of physical activity and how it can improve long-term health and mitigate the effects of poverty on children's development."
"We look forward to delivering this programme and are excited to work with West Lancashire Freemasons to positively impact families across Wigan and Leigh."
Mark Matthews, leader of West Lancashire Freemasons, said: "I am very pleased that we have been able to support Wigan Athletic Community Trust and the incredible work they do to help underprivileged young children and their families in the local area. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis poses a significant challenge to children's health. The Kids on the Move program enables young people to develop healthy habits and find genuine enjoyment."
Assistant Provincial Grand Master Malcolm Bell and Wigan Group Chairman Ian Green visited the Trust to witness the grant's community impact, expressing satisfaction with how the Freemasons' donations are being effectively utilized.
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