All Posts By

Martene Carroll

Martene Carroll
In News

Quintain Volunteer for JRF

Quintain staff volunteering at JRF

On Friday 22nd March a team of staff from Quitain downed their usual work tools, before descending on Bridgestone Arena, to volunteer for the Jason Roberts Foundation (JRF).

The Senior Staff team led by James set aside a day to volunteer their time to decorate the community hub on the Stonebridge Estate where JRF is based, ahead of the Easter Holiday programme.

The ten volunteers armed themselves with paint brushes and rollers to give the hall, corridors, and changing rooms a much-needed facelift. Throughout the day the teamwork and camaraderie were evident.

After a productive and successful day of community volunteering the staff team took some time to out to tour the facilities at Bridgestone Arena, and have a photo taken in front of the Inspire to Achieve heritage legacy wall that was funded by Quintain late last year.

CEO of JRF Otis Roberts said of the day; “We would like to thank Quintain and the staff team for all their efforts today. We have worked with and been supported by the group on numerous initiatives, and we hope the relationship goes from strength to strength. We recognise and appreciate the support Quintain gives to all local projects.”

About Quintain

We are the award-winning development and asset management team behind Wembley Park, one of London’s most exciting new neighbourhoods. During our 30-year history we have transformed assets into places where people want to live, companies want to grow, and neighbourhoods can come alive.

For more information visit https://www.quintain.co.uk/about-us

Wembley Park Overview

Since 2004, Quintain has been working on one of London’s largest development schemes, Wembley Park, transforming long-neglected space around the National Stadium into a vibrant new district of London.

For more information visit https://www.quintain.co.uk/wembley-park/overview

Martene Carroll
In Events, News

A Celebration of Brent’s Heritage

Gary Waddock talking to school pupils in class

Last month Otis Roberts, CEO and Martene Carroll, Business Development Manager from JRF were among the guests at Kiln Theatre for an evening to celebrate Brent’s Heritage.

The event, which was hosted by the London & South Engagement Team

from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, was an opportunity to celebrate the amazing contributions to heritage achievements in the last five years in Brent and find out what’s next!

Guests included several individuals, groups, and organisations based in Brent who have received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund over the last five years, thanks to National Lottery players, and who have delivered myriad projects to celebrate the rich cultural and sporting heritage of the London Borough.

JRF’s own Heritage project, ‘Inspire to Achieve’ uncovered the histories and untold stories of the Footballers who Paved the Way in the borough of Brent.

Visit JRF’s website dedicated to the project here: https://www.inspire2achieve.co.uk

During the evening a film was shown which gave a small snapshot of all the heritage activity that Brent organisations have delivered with Heritage Fund grants since 2019.

The film can be watched here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00d5bvLkXI8

Notes to editors

About the Jason Roberts Foundation (JRF)

JRF is a sport for development charity delivering a programme of wrap-around support – mentoring, life skills, education, and training, within our multi-sports activities providing opportunities and promoting exercise and team games to young people, including those at risk, and those with physical and learning disabilities. There is also a focus on health and wellbeing family interventions, and intergenerational community projects and events. We collaborate with local voluntary, public, and private sector organisations, and funding bodies to achieve our objective of ‘community first’.

About The National Lottery Heritage Fund

As the largest dedicated funder of the UK’s heritage, The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future as set out in our strategic plan, Heritage 2033. 

Over the next ten years, the Heritage Fund aims to invest £3.6billion raised for good causes by National Lottery players to bring about benefits for people, places, and the natural environment.  

The Heritage Fund helps protect, transform, and share the things from the past that people care about, from popular museums and historic places, our natural environment, and fragile species, to the languages and cultural traditions that celebrate who we are. 

The Heritage Fund is passionate about heritage and committed to driving innovation and collaboration to make a positive difference to people’s lives today, while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy.  

Follow @HeritageFundUK on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLotteryHeritageFund  www.heritagefund.org.uk.

Further information

For more information contact JRF at info@jasonrobertsfoundation.org

Martene Carroll
In News

JRF – Building Bright Futures

Young people sitting around tables receiving training

JRF are the focus of a recent article by Young Brent Foundation’s One Flow One Brent (OFOB) that talks of the partnership between JRF and OFOB, and the innovative programmes that have been delivered for the benefit of children and young people in Brent.

Thanks to the ongoing support from Young Brent Foundation and funding through the OFOB partnership, the JRF team has been able to provide opportunities for young people to flourish and grow.

Read the full article here:

Building Bright Futures: JRF’s Inspiring Journey with OFOB (youngbrentfoundation.org.uk)

Martene Carroll
In Events, News

Andrew Cole Day with JRF

Andrew Cole talking to some budding coaches

Easter Sunday

On Sunday 31st March 2024 JRF hosted a special event to celebrate Andrew Cole.

The former Manchester United and England legend who represented a number of top-level clubs in the UK during his playing career was guest of honour at the JRF headquarters – Bridgestone Arena on the Stonebridge Recreation Ground.

The event which was attended by approximately 500 local people formed part of the ongoing Legacy Series, a new initiative which has seen former professional footballers including Emile Heskey and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink immersing themselves in the local Brent community, as well as visiting the recent Cyrille Regis book launch at Harlesden Library.

On the day, coaching sessions for 40 budding community coaches were delivered by Peter Augustine from the Football Association as part of the ongoing continued professional development for these young people, and Walking Football for men and women was at the forefront of the early activities.

The local community and football fans dropped in to meet the footballing legend, take the opportunity for photos, and to meet up with and socialise with old friends over music and refreshments during the all-day event.


Specially made Andrew Cole bibs which referenced all the Clubs he had represented looking at the history and heritage of the player, were a talking point during the session.

Following an hour-long talk where Andrew discussed health, wellbeing, family, and career there was a special presentation by local young people of roses and a Player’s Cap to commemorate the role Andrea plays in inspiring others.

In the afternoon Andrew also kicked off a Ramadan Cup game and met local Somali community leaders in Brent.

The all-day event included health checks being offered by the Clinical Team from Brent Health Matters and there was a Focus Group discussion on prostate Cancer to raise awareness amongst the local community.

There was certainly something for everyone during the special Easter Event which continued into the evening.

Martene Carroll
In Events, News

Cyrille Regis Book Launch a Success

Speakers on stage at Cyrille Regis Book Launch

On the evening of Thursday 14th March the JRF Team hosted the launch of a new book written by the late Cyrille Regis’s long-time friend and former West Brom photographer, Laurie Rampling at Harlesden Library.

The book entitled ‘Cyrille Regis; Working Class Hero’ has been keenly anticipated by friends, family, and football fans alike, and depicts the life and career of the footballing legend, in pictures and words.

The large audience had the pleasure of meeting Cyrille’s daughter, Michelle Regis who joined Laurie and JRF’s Michael Adams on the stage, as the journey of the sporting icon was relived.

Local residents, some of whom went to school with Cyrille recalled their childhood memories from school and growing up on the Stonebridge Estate, where the JRF Community Hub is situated.

Jason Roberts, Robert Regis, Cyrille’s son and his brother Dave Regis joined the many online guests who were present to share their own memories. 

The book recently went on sale and has already sold over 2000 copies. With the striking cover emblazoned with the number nine, Cyrille’s number when at West Brom, the book boasts over 70 unseen pictures of the great man, from his football career and his personal life. 

The book can be bought online through:

https://www.curtis-sport.com/online-store/Cyrille-Regis-Working-Class-Hero-p622780280

Martene Carroll
In Awards & Grants, News

JRF to deliver London EmpowerHER Girls’ Rugby Project

The Jason Roberts Foundation (JRF) are delighted to have been selected by England Rugby and the Mayor of London to deliver London EmpowerHER, a new project that aims to create a healthier, safer, and more inclusive future for young women and girls.

The project will launch in April and will be delivered to local schools and from JRF’s community hub on the Stonebridge Estate, Bridgestone Arena (formerly The Pavilion), London NW10 8LW.

Offering weekly Rugby coaching sessions alongside monthly ‘club’ sessions which will informally explore issues such as mental well-being, leadership and relationships, nutrition, self-care, and personal support.

Media activities will involve each participant creating a podcast to talk about their rugby experiences, focusing on activities to raise the profile of women’s rugby in preparation for the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025,

There will also be the opportunity for participants to attend an England Women’s game at Twickenham for the 6 Nations or a Saracens Women’s game at StoneX Stadium.

JRF will host two Rugby celebration community events with demonstration rugby skills and opportunities for everyone to have a go.

Martene Carroll, Business Development Manager for JRF said; “We are especially pleased to have been chosen to deliver this exciting initiative that is targeted to young women and girls. Despite our broad offer, we continue to experience lower participation rates amongst girls, especially as they reach adolescence. We know the myriad reasons teenage girls disengage from sport and physical activity, for example, feeling judged and lack of self-belief. We hope that through the London EmpowerHER project young women and girls will be inspired in sport and in life and we will see female participation rates grow.”

NOTE:

If you aged 11 – 18-years-old and are interested in taking part in this project, please contact martene@jasonrobertsfoundation.org

About London EmpowerHER:

England Rugby and the Mayor of London have joined forces to deliver London EmpowerHER, a new project aiming to create a healthier, safer, and more inclusive future for young women and girls in Redbridge and Brent communities.

As part of the project, non-contact rugby activities will be delivered to girls in the region that are designed to foster physical fitness, leadership skills, and a pathway to better employability. Beyond that, the project is also committed to supporting London’s anti-violence against women campaign, by spreading awareness and education.

The project will commence from April 2024 with young women and girls (11-18yrs), in two London boroughs – Brent & Redbridge – being the primary focus.

With England hosting Rugby World Cup 2025, and with Twickenham being a host venue for the tournament, England Rugby is seeking to grow the women and girls’ game throughout the capital and showcase the many benefits the sport can have on both mental and physical health.

Bolstered by hosting next year’s Rugby World Cup, England Rugby has set a target of reaching 100k registered female players by 2027. The London EmpowerHER initiative is designed to help achieve that growth, while also allowing young girls to develop skills that will be important in later life.

For more information visit https://www.englandrugby.com/news/article/england-rugby-and-mayor-of-london-launch-project-to-empower-young-girls

Martene Carroll
In Awards & Grants

WNST Funding for JRF

Wembley National Stadium Trust logo

Thanks to funding from the Wembley National Stadium Trust (WNST) the JRF Team are delighted by the ongoing work they have been able to deliver for the benefit of the Brent community.

JRF was one of several local groups that was invited by WNST to apply for funding as part of the Trust’s new ‘Anchor Organisations’ programme’.

The two-year funding from WNST has enabled JRF to deliver a wide range of activities, events, and health initiatives for the local community. As well as regular multi-sports and fitness activities that cater for all ages and abilities, the over 50’s have set up a Walking Football Team ‘Bridgestone Steppers’ and a group of young people have created a Basketball Team the ‘Bridgestone Bulls’.

Community outreach is enabling the team to engage with neighbouring residents to ensure that everyone in the community can get involved in sports, regardless of any barriers they face.

Through funding, facilities at JRF’s community hub, Bridgestone Arena, have been upgraded including additional items of gym equipment and Basketball stands and hoops, enabling the team to provide safe and accessible sports facilities for all members of the community.

JRF is reliant on the dedication and expertise of their coaches and volunteers, and part of the funding is being used to provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to help them stay current and effective in their roles.

Regular intergenerational Community events allow people to come together through sport alleviating isolation and loneliness, helping people to feel more connected. The funding has allowed JRF to offer the Brent public a host of events including a celebration day for the Brazilian community, Health & Wellbeing initiatives, Sports tournaments, and social action enterprises including community clean-up days.

Otis Roberts, CEO of the Foundation said; “We are thrilled to have been awarded this funding by the Wembley National Stadium Trust. By focusing on the plans we proposed as part of our application, we believe we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our local community and leave a positive legacy for future generations.”

To hear more from Otis about the impact of the funding watch this video https://youtu.be/CGHihyQ806Q?feature=shared

WNST is a charitable grant-making trust, distributing funding received from Wembley National Stadium Ltd to support community sports activities.

For more information visit https://wnst.org/

Martene Carroll
In Awards & Grants

Edward Harvist Trust Fund Grant for JRF

Green screen in the cultural media centre

Following their successful ‘Thrive in Brent’ application to the Edward Harvist Trust Fund the JRF Team are delighted by the positive impact the project is having on the local community.

The awarded grant has enabled JRF to purchase equipment for the Community Hub to aid Fitness Activities, Events, and Training programmes for Brent residents.

Regular community events hosted by the JRF team celebrate the rich diversity of Brent and support residents to come together socially, share experiences, and build strong relationships. From cultural festivals, sports tournaments, and family fun days, these gatherings help to foster a sense of belonging and unity, enhancing community spirit.

A key aspect of JRF’s offer is to empower young people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life, through education, training, and career pathways. The funding has enabled the team to offer access to mentoring and career workshops to guide young adults towards fulfilling and sustainable careers.

Sport, exercise, and fitness activities are central to JRF’s offer and Health and Wellbeing are at the core of the ‘Thrive in Brent’ project, as it seeks to improve the overall physical and mental wellbeing of Brent residents. Offering a diverse rage of fitness classes, from yoga and dance to outdoor workouts and sports activities, with the aim of making exercise enjoyable and accessible to all age groups and fitness levels. Nutritional workshops and health screenings are also on offer to underpin healthy lifestyle choices.

Martene Carroll, Business Development Manager for JRF said of the award; “We are delighted to again receive funding from the Edward Harvist Trust Fund to support our work in the community. In 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic, we were awarded funding to equip and open our onsite Cultural Media Centre, and with the additional funding provided at the time by Wembley National Stadium Trust (WNST), this allowed us to deliver online talks, forums, and fitness sessions during National lockdowns, which was a vital lifeline for the Brent community. We are very grateful to the Trust for their ongoing support.”

Martene Carroll
In News

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink visits I2A Legacy Exhibition

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink being interviewed by JRF volunteers

Saturday 24th February 2024

Following the successful launch of JRF’s Inspire to Achieve Heritage Legacy Exhibition on Saturday 10th February, the weekend of the 24th February saw the iconic striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink come to Harlesden High Street Library.

The former Chelsea and Holland striker who originally hails from Suriname, has visited the JRF at Bridgestone Arena several times inspiring young people in the local area and the team were thrilled to have him back to visit the Exhibition.

The audience, made up of children and adults from the local community, heard from Jimmy about his career in the football industry and the importance of preserving stories, photographs and mementos for future generations. Jimmy was interviewed by JRF Media Lead, Michael Adams, and youth volunteers Marley and Eyaad who ably interviewed Paul Merson at BOXPARK Wembley as part of the I2A Heritage Project.

Jimmy is part of Gareth Southgate’s current coaching team and visited the Inspire to Achieve Legacy Exhibition, which is part funded by the Professional Footballers Association, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery Players, and Brent Council.

The launch event which was attended by the Mayor of Brent, Cllr Orleen Hylton and was covered by The Voice Online https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/community/2024/02/20/local-charity-launches-sports-heritage-exhibition-northwest-london/ welcomed several footballing heroes who hailed from Brent including the Stein brothers, and Dave Regis.

The exhibition runs until the end of June 2024.

For more information visit www.inspire2achieve.co.uk   

Martene Carroll
In Events

Emile Heskey supports Community Coaches

Emile Heskey with budding community coaches

On Sunday 11th February, the JRF Team were delighted to welcome special guest, Emile Heskey to Bridgestone Arena as part of their ongoing continued professional development (CPD) for Community Coaches initiative.

The former striker and English professional footballer who currently serves as head of football development in his hometown for Leicester City Women, was on hand to give expert advice about Learning Interactions and Strategies. The training sessions with FA Coach Development Officers enables budding coaches to gain vital CPD hours towards their qualification.

The packed weekend session, which was held at JRF’s community hub, gave young people in attendance the opportunity to gain valuable experience and advice from the England International

On the same day our Walking Football Caribbean Team were joined by Heskey in a training session before a special Awards Ceremony where the players aged 50+ and 60+ were presented with International Caps to celebrate their combined achievements in the Summer Walking Football World Cup of Nations Final and the Winter Nations Cup which was won by the Caribbean over 50s Team.

If you would like to know more about the Community Coaches CPD sessions and other Career development and training opportunities through JRF please contact info@jasonrobertsfoundation.org.