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Delivered by AFC Telford United Foundation and supported through Telford & Wrekin Council's Building Safer & Stronger Communities programme, the KIX programme provides free football for young people (both boys and girls) aged 11 to 16 at locations across the borough.

Recognised nationally as the National League Trust Project of the Year, KIX has grown from a single weekly session in Dawley into one of Telford’s most successful youth engagement programmes, now reaching hundreds of young people every year.

While football is at the heart of the programme, KIX is about far more than what happens on the pitch. Sessions provide young people with a safe and welcoming place to spend time with friends, access positive activities and build relationships with trusted adults.

Cabinet Member for Safer Streets and Better Housing, Councillor Nathan England said: "KIX is a fantastic example of how our Building Safer & Stronger Communities programme is helping to create positive opportunities for young people across Telford and Wrekin.

"While football is the draw for many young people, the benefits go far beyond sport. The programme provides safe spaces where young people can build friendships, develop confidence, improve their wellbeing and feel connected to their local community.

"The fact that KIX has been recognised nationally as the National League Trust Project of the Year shows the real impact it is having. We're proud to support initiatives like this that give young people positive activities close to home and help create safer, stronger communities for everyone."

Tom Elliott, AFC Telford United Foundation manager, said: "For some young people, KIX is much more than a football session. It's a place where they feel valued, supported and able to be themselves. We're proud to work with Telford & Wrekin Council and our community partners to provide those opportunities and help young people thrive both on and off the pitch.

"At KIX, creating a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for young people is our number one priority. Every week we see the positive difference these sessions make, not just in terms of physical activity, but in helping young people build confidence, develop friendships and feel connected to their community."

The programme forms part of the Council's wider work to create safer and stronger communities by providing positive activities for young people and helping prevent social isolation.

AFC Telford United Foundation says the programme's success has been built on strong partnerships and a commitment to supporting young people beyond football, with some former participants now volunteering and helping to deliver sessions themselves.

The programme continues to support young people of all abilities, providing opportunities to improve physical and mental wellbeing, develop teamwork and communication skills and build confidence both on and off the pitch.

The Council is encouraging young people aged 11 to 16 and their families to find out more about the free sessions available in their area.

For details of KIX sessions and other activities available to young people across the borough, visit the website.