Appeal for sports kit to help children meet the cost of being active

An initiative is ensuring children from disadvantaged backgrounds will be kitted out for sport.

‘Kit for All’ in Dundee is appealing for new and well cared-for sports clothing, shoes and equipment to be donated to schools and given to youngsters who need it to help them get active.

The scheme aims to support families by making sport and physical activity accessible to everyone.

Active Schools manager James Fenna said: “You assume that a lot of children and young people have all the kit they need, but sport is becoming more costly to access, not only to use the sports facilities that we have, but also to access all the kit you need.

“All these things cost a lot of money and not everyone can afford them unfortunately.

“We’re asking people to donate as much equipment and sports kit as they can so we can them pass it on to the children and the families who need it most.”

Families are encouraged to clear out their wardrobes and cupboards, with schools across Dundee acting as collection points.

All sports and activities are included, from football and rugby to netball and swimming. There is a particular need for items for young and teenage girls.

The charity Dundee Bairns is working in partnership with Active Schools Dundee to run the project.

“For kids who want to participate who maybe haven’t participated because they haven’t had the kit, they really need the boost,” said Dundee Bairns manager Genna Millar.

“That new kit, something that fits them, something that looks good, makes them feel able to participate. It’s so important to get it right.”