Local Leaders Trained to Support Youth Through Mentoring in Waltham Cross

The dedicated two-day mentoring course delivered at the Waltham Cross Young People’s Centre on Sundays 22 and 29 June. The Mentoring Young People in a Community Setting course was led by StreetGames, a national charity focused on transforming the lives of young people in underserved communities. The course was delivered as part of the Active Local Workforce Development Programme, which is led by the Herts Coaches Association in partnership with the Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP). The training aimed to equip local leaders with practical tools and strategies to provide more holistic, wraparound care in their community clubs, sessions, and outreach programmes. 

Matt Ridley, Active Local Officer Waltham Cross said, “This isn’t just about delivering local sport sessions, it’s about building trust, understanding young people’s needs, and creating safe, supportive spaces. It’s also about building and supporting a local workforce, investing in the people who are already doing great work in their communities and giving them the tools to go even further.” 

Participants praised the course for its immediate relevance and real-world application. Many shared that the training had already shifted their mindset, improved their communication with young people, and helped them rethink how they plan and deliver community sessions. 

Supported by the Sport England Movement Fund, the Active Local Workforce Development Programme is focused on upskilling local residents to become a sustainable, community workforce that can lead and deliver physical activity opportunities where they’re needed most. By empowering those already embedded in their communities, the initiative ensures support for young people is not only more accessible but also more effective and long-lasting. 

HSP will continue to target opportunities within Waltham Cross as this feeds into our wider Sport England Supported Places work. There will be further workforce development opportunities over the coming 18 months, helping to grow local leadership and deepen community impact. 

To learn more about the Active Local Workforce Development Programme and upcoming courses, please contact Matt Ridley, m.ridley2@herts.ac.uk or visit www.sportinherts.org.uk/active-local.