What is Village United CIC?

 

Village United CIC is a not-for-profit community organisation that helps children access grassroots sports where cost would otherwise be a barrier. We work with families, schools, community organisations and sports clubs to ensure every child has the opportunity to belong, grow and thrive through sport.

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Who can apply for support?

 

Support is available for children who may be unable to access organised sport due to financial circumstances. This may include families experiencing financial hardship, single-parent households, or families facing temporary difficulty.

 

Each application is considered individually and confidentially.

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What age children do you support?

 

We typically support children and young people aged 5–16, depending on available funding and suitable sports opportunities.

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What sports do you support?

 

Village United CIC works with a wide range of grassroots sports, including (but not limited to):

• Football

• Rugby

• Cricket

• Swimming

• Martial arts

• Cheerleading

• Padel

• Horse riding

• Basketball

 

Support depends on available clubs, safeguarding arrangements and funding.

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How does the support work?

 

If a child is approved:

• Village United CIC pays the sports fees directly to the club

• Village United provides kit/uniform and essential equipment

• The child joins as a full member of the team or programme

• Families are not required to repay any costs

• Ongoing support and monitoring are provided where appropriate

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Does it cost families anything?

 

No.

Funding is paid directly to the sports club. There is no cost to families for approved support.

 

How do I apply for my child?

 

Parents or carers can apply by completing the referral form on our website.

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Once submitted:

• Applications are reviewed confidentially

• Eligibility and safeguarding checks are completed

• Families are contacted regarding next steps

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Can schools or professionals refer a child?

 

Yes.

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Referrals can be made by:

• Schools

• Family support services

• Community organisations

• Sports clubs

 

Parental consent is always required before any placement is confirmed.

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What happens if demand is high?

 

When demand exceeds available funding, Village United CIC uses a fair and transparent internal prioritisation process to ensure support reaches children with the greatest need.

 

Families will always be kept informed.

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Is my information kept confidential?

 

Yes.

All information is handled in line with data protection legislation and safeguarding requirements. Information is only shared where necessary and always in the child’s best interests.

 

Is Village United CIC a charity?

 

Village United CIC is a Community Interest Company (CIC). This means we operate not for profit and all surplus income is reinvested into supporting children and communities.

 

How is safeguarding managed?

 

Safeguarding is central to everything we do.

 

Village United CIC has:

• A Designated Safeguarding Lead

• Independent safeguarding oversight

• Clear safeguarding policies and procedures

• Partnerships only with clubs that meet safeguarding standards

 

The safety and wellbeing of children always comes first.

If you have any safeguarding concerns please contact us at safeguarding@villageunited.co.uk

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Can my child choose which club they join?

 

Where possible, we work with families to identify suitable local clubs. Final placement depends on availability, safeguarding checks and funding.

 

How long does the support last?

 

Support is typically provided for a season or agreed period, subject to funding and review.

 

Continued support may be considered depending on circumstances and available funding.

 

How can grassroots clubs get involved?

 

Grassroots clubs can partner with Village United CIC by offering funded places for children within their teams. Clubs must meet safeguarding and insurance requirements.

 

Clubs can contact us directly through the website.

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How can organisations or funders support Village United CIC?

 

We welcome support from:

• Local Authorities

• Funders and grant bodies

• Corporate partners

• Community donors

 

All funding goes directly towards creating opportunities for children.

 

How can I contact Village United CIC?

 

Please visit our website contact page or email us directly at info@villageunited.co.uk

We aim to respond as quickly as possible.

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