Allianz UK, the Worldwide Insurance Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements, worked with the Youth Sport Trust to inspire UK school children to rebuild their health, happiness, and resilience post-COVID through its MoveNow Festivals.
The 20 inclusive festivals - designed to provide opportunities for children aged between 11-13 with mixed abilities and SEND* requirements to try various sports and activities at facilities across the UK from Scotland to Bournemouth – were run by Youth Sport Trust athlete mentors, young leaders and Allianz volunteers.
The events saw 138 schools participate with more than 1,600 young people taking part in activities such as boccia, archery and visually impaired football with an important session included for self-reflection. The programme promotes physical activity, fosters inclusion and develops character and leadership skills amongst young people.
Emily Reynolds, national programmes director at the Youth Sport Trust, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to have worked with Allianz to deliver 20 MoveNow festivals across the UK this year. These events empowered more than 250 young leaders to support more than 1,600 children to get active, capitalising on the enthusiasm for sport and play during an Olympic and Paralympic year. “Our partnership has given young people opportunities to try new sports, which are key to physical, mental and social wellbeing. Putting inclusive activities at the heart of the MoveNow festivals has helped schools think about different approaches they can adopt so no one misses out, and the festivals have given young people chances to lead and make sure they are getting the most out of their involvement and having fun.”
Carolyn Rich
Director of brand at Allianz UK, said:
“Having attended three of the festivals, I was inspired each time by the enthusiasm of all those who participated. The young leaders took centre stage in motivating and leading the activities, and the enjoyment and growth in confidence from all the school children and young leaders at the end of the day was a testament to the collaboration that we have with Youth Sport Trust in bringing a different way of experiencing sports in an inclusive way.
Speaking to our employees that have volunteered this year they have seen firsthand the power of play and sport to foster inclusion, develop leaderships skills and improve the health of all the school children and young leaders that have taken part.”