Wicketz is about improving the prospects of disadvantaged young people and providing them with the skills they need to thrive and fulfil their potential. 

Growing up in poverty can have an adverse effect on children's wellbeing and future life prospects. Our free, year-round, weekly community cricket sessions engage hard-to-reach young people living in areas of high deprivation and in some of the most diverse cities in the UK.

But Wicketz is about much more than getting young people playing cricket – it provides wider opportunities for them to develop a long-term understanding of their own wellbeing, improve their overall quality of life and develop social and personal skills such as confidence, resilience, respect, teamwork and leadership.

Through early intervention, in-session learning and life skills workshops, we help create lifelong habits that promote positive futures and ultimately healthier and more cohesive communities.

Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Approximately 70% are from B.A.M.E (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) communities, with over 30 different ethnicities represented. We have welcomed many from marginalised groups including young carers, refugees, excluded pupils, young offenders and others who are potentially at risk of being caught up in crime or violence. 

Girls often take part in less sport than boys – through girls only hubs, workshops and residential festivals we are encouraging more girls to join, enjoy and benefit from Wicketz.

Working with a range of partners to understand local challenges and inviting young people to shape their own projects, makes each project unique – from dealing with the challenges around crime or bullying in their local areas to raising awareness about mental health (all Development Officers are now trained in mental health first aid), nutrition and safety. We are giving our participants the skills they need and encouraging them to take key roles in the direction of the programme. Increasingly Wicketz is developing for those beginning to move towards adulthood focussing on leadership, mentoring and employability skills.

In recognition of the benefit Wicketz brings to local communities we have gained funding from such organisations as Building A Stronger Britain Together (Home Office), Police and Crime Commissioners, and community funds.