Glasgow community football sessions help kids get off the streets

The weekly events promote health and well-being while also establishing stronger community connections in Wyndford.

Run by local charity G20 Works, the friendly games started three weeks ago and have become a beloved activity in the area.

Thomas Bradley, a volunteer at the charity came up with the idea.

Thomas Bradley (Image: Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

Participants at this week's football session (Image: Gordon Terris, Newsquest)

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He said: "What we are trying to do is get the young ones involved in sports and mix them in different communities.

"We want them to interact and get them away from crime and the scheme, while also promoting health.

"The kids are from all different backgrounds.

"The numbers seem to be evolving, we are trying to reach out to get a girls' group as well."

Participants play on the astroturf next to Maryhill Hub every Tuesday night, where all are welcome.

The 37-year-old added: "We are trying to make it open to everybody.

"Young ones and old ones.

"We take names and I will go and give them to the director of G20 Works, it just gives them a project."

Other than the benefits of fitness and engaging with peers, the initiative also promotes mental well-being.

This is important for Mr Bradley, who has been a volunteer at the charity since October.

He said: "Football breaks a lot of barriers down and definitely supports their mental health.

"I see them coming out of their shells.

"We are just trying to reach out to them and get them involved in the community.

"Other people can also see that the kids are helping and taking part in the community."

The G20 Works Football training has already hugely benefitted the participants.

The volunteer said: "It's brilliant. Just to be there, seeing them kicking about is great,

"It's just something to give them a wee bit of pride and something to be connected to.

"And it's creating this safe environment for them as well."

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Emily Cutts, the charity's director, added: "Local resident and G20 volunteer Thomas had a great idea to support young people through football and it's really taking off.

"A lot of people are complaining about the young people being disruptive but there is not much for them to do in the community.

"Thomas, and the G20 Works, are striving to support local young people to access more opportunities in their community and to build relationships to make the area safer and more nurturing for everyone."

Aside from the sports sessions, the organisation also runs other initiatives, such as a car wash, pizza business, community cafe and beauty salon, all of which give local under-16s the opportunity to learn new skills and get work experience.