What is the Power of Sport toolkit?
The ‘Power of Sport’ Toolkit is an interactive resource created by Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network, in collaboration with StreetGames, to support organisations and community leaders in harnessing the power of sport to foster social cohesion. Designed as a step-by-step guide, it provides the tools, resources, and inspiration needed to design impactful, inclusive programmes that bring diverse communities together and promote a sense of belonging.
What do we mean by social cohesion?
Social cohesion is about building strong, connected communities where people from different backgrounds can live, work, and play together harmoniously. It involves breaking down barriers caused by segregation, prejudice, and inequality, and creating opportunities for people to connect and engage meaningfully with each other. This toolkit helps organisations create environments where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered to participate.
Who is the toolkit for?
The toolkit is designed for volunteer-involving organisations, sports coaches, community leaders, and programme facilitators working within the charity sector. It is particularly suited for those aiming to engage diverse groups, address inequalities, and build bridges between communities through sport. Whether you are running youth programmes, community clubs, or local events, this toolkit offers practical support and guidance.
How will the toolkit benefit volunteer-involving organisations?
For organisations relying on volunteers, this toolkit is invaluable. It provides clear, actionable steps for creating and managing programmes that align with social cohesion goals. By using this toolkit, organisations can ensure that their initiatives are inclusive, evidence-based, and capable of fostering long-term, positive community impact. It also offers volunteer coordinators insights into effective engagement strategies and best practices for maintaining inclusive environments.
What is in the toolkit?
The toolkit is structured into six interactive sections, covering everything from identifying cohesion challenges in your area to developing programmes that create real change. It includes videos, questionnaires, and guidance on understanding local demographics, recognising barriers, and implementing effective strategies for inclusion. By the end, users will have a personalised plan for creating and sustaining programmes that make a difference.
How do I use the toolkit / get started?
Once registered you can get started straight away! You can use the toolkit on a PC, laptop, tablet or phone – whatever is most convenient. You can save your work to return to it later. You may wish to return to the plan you create to update it on an annual basis as your own knowledge and experience grows or as volunteering opportunities change within your organisation. You may like to go through the units with others and discuss as you go along.
Do I have to pay to use the toolkit?
No – the toolkit is completely free to use.
Who has created the toolkit?
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is a national charity and membership organisation based in Manchester. We support you to help people from different backgrounds meet, mix and get along. We do not work directly with the general public but support those who do – local authorities, charities, businesses, education providers and arts organisations. Our aim is to empower anyone using volunteering, sports provision, workplace EDI initiatives, community tension reduction, the arts and more to create stronger, more resilient communities. To support this journey Belong offers thought leadership and knowledge, research and evidence of what works, peer to peer support networks and training and consultancy. You can find out more about Belong’s work here.
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Who has funded the toolkit?
For any further information, please contact us at hello@belongnetwork.co.uk