Helping Kids Achieve
1353. Keiren Thompson
Keiren Thompson, from Nottingham, established ‘Helping Kids Achieve’ after he was seriously injured in a gang attack to keep hundreds of young people in Bulwell away from crime by offering them a variety of sports clubs in safe spaces.
The community project offers young people the opportunity to engage in sports, particularly basketball which Keiren coaches, as well as other interactive activities such as arts and crafts, and music, with the aim of keeping them away from gangs and getting involved in anti-social behaviour. Keiren’s coaching and outreach work has also been recognised with the Unsung Hero award at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year 2019.
In a personal letter to Keiren, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“As you know from the vicious attack you suffered as a teenager, gang violence destroys lives and communities. It is vital that young people have something to do and somewhere safe to go and your work providing sports clubs and activities does just that.”
Keiren said:
“I am very shocked and honoured to receive this award. It is always nice to be recognised for the voluntary work I do. I hope this can inspire more young people and show them that they can achieve anything if they try their best. Thank you.”