KEEP has transformed access to sports in Leeds by donating nearly 2,000 sports kits to local communities, tackling inequality, and saving over £32,000. This incredible effort, involving partners like Active Leeds and Zero Waste Leeds, ensures that financial barriers no longer prevent individuals from enjoying physical activity and reduces waste significantly.
How is the Kit Equipment Exchange Partnership (KEEP) transforming access to sports in Leeds?
The Kit Equipment Exchange Partnership (KEEP) is improving access to sports in Leeds by donating nearly 2,000 pieces of sports kit to local communities. This initiative tackles inequality, promotes inclusivity, prevents waste, and saves over £32,000, benefiting children, families, and marginalized groups.
Tackling Inequality in Sports through Community Action
A significant pilot event took place last week at the John Charles Centre for Sport in Leeds, marking a crucial step toward addressing inequality in sports participation. Nearly 2,000 pieces of sports kit were donated in an initiative designed to remove barriers for individuals and groups who might otherwise be unable to participate in sporting activities. Dubbed the Kit Equipment Exchange Partnership (KEEP), this effort was driven by collaboration between local organizations and supported through funding from Leeds City Council’s Active Leeds service.
KEEP’s approach centers on the redistribution of unwanted sports kits and equipment across Leeds. By collecting gear that would otherwise go unused, the partnership ensures that financial limitations do not stop children, young people, and adults from enjoying the benefits of physical activity. “No one should be put off from playing sports or being active because they can’t afford to buy the right equipment,” said Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles, and culture.
The pilot event drew over 30 organizations to the centre, where they collected items for their communities. With this initiative, KEEP not only distributed resources but also fostered a network of collaboration and support among schools, community groups, and families. The event highlighted the profound impact that a united approach can have, with one attendee noting, “This pilot event was a real success, delivering huge impact to people across our city.”
Broad Range of Beneficiaries and Far-Reaching Impact
The donated sports kits included a diverse array of items: sports tops, bottoms, jackets, trainers, sports bras, period pants, and swimwear. This comprehensive selection ensured that recipients could find gear tailored to their needs, regardless of age or background. At the event, primary and secondary schools, specialist inclusive learning centres, and community organizations all collected supplies, as did parents attending a local sports day.
KEEP’s distribution strategy focuses on inclusivity, targeting populations that traditionally face barriers to sports participation. Among the recipients were:
- Children and young people
- Looked after children
- Women and girls
- LGBTQ+ groups
- Individuals attending substance misuse groups
- Residents living in the most deprived areas of Leeds
The partnership’s commitment to inclusivity is vital. As the clothing and equipment reach these varied groups, KEEP helps foster a culture of belonging and opportunity. For many, access to proper kit is the first step toward positive engagement with sports and physical activity.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The KEEP event not only addressed social inequality but also delivered measurable environmental and financial benefits. By collecting and redistributing 1,890 pieces of sports equipment, the initiative prevented an estimated 831 kilograms of waste from going to landfill. This action supported the broader sustainability objectives of Leeds, aligning closely with efforts led by Zero Waste Leeds, a partner of KEEP.
The financial implications of the event were equally impressive. By avoiding the need to purchase new equipment, the council realized savings of over £32,000. This sum can now be redirected to other essential community services and initiatives, further amplifying the impact of the event.
A spokesperson for KEEP highlighted the dual benefits: “We’re proud not only to be supporting people in need but also to be reducing waste and saving valuable council resources. It’s a win-win for Leeds.” The initiative stands as a model for how community-based projects can integrate environmental sustainability with social welfare.
Collaboration, Recognition, and Continued Commitment
The success of KEEP is rooted in cooperation among multiple organizations, each contributing expertise and resources to the cause. The partnership includes:
- Active Leeds
- Yorkshire Sport Foundation
- Zero Waste Leeds
- Leeds United Foundation
- Action for Sport
- Freedom4Girls
- Run For All
Through this collective effort, KEEP has established a blueprint for future events and ongoing support. The network’s strength lies in its diversity and shared commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of Leeds residents.
The partnership’s work has not gone unnoticed. KEEP was nominated for a Compassionate City Award, an accolade that honors those making positive contributions to their communities. The awards, scheduled for November 6, celebrate the spirit of compassion and proactive change, exemplified by KEEP’s recent event.
As stated by Councillor Arif, “KEEP is doing a great job in removing that barrier for people, whilst also making sure no kit or equipment is going to waste. As part of our Leeds Ambitions, we are committed to tackling inequalities, and we look forward to this partnership continuing to create change where it’s needed.”
For more information about the organizations involved and future KEEP events, visit the Active Leeds website or follow updates from Leeds City Council.
- KEEP has donated nearly 2,000 sports kits to Leeds communities, saving over £32,000 and tackling inequality.
- The initiative prevents financial barriers from stopping individuals from participating in physical activity and significantly reduces waste.
- A pilot event at the John Charles Centre for Sport distributed nearly 2,000 pieces of sports kit to over 30 organizations.
- The donated items included a wide range of gear, benefiting children, young people, women and girls, LGBTQ+ groups, and residents in deprived areas.
- KEEP saved over £32,000 by avoiding new equipment purchases and prevented 831 kilograms of waste from going to landfill.