Birmingham Connect used the power of sport, and excitement of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) Birmingham 2022, to promote social integration of young people aged 12-14 years in Birmingham. Pairing schools across Birmingham encouraged meaningful social mixing to improve attitudes and perceptions held of people from different backgrounds; driven by young people who catalysed change.

The programme was delivered by the Youth Sport Trust (YST) and funded by the Commonwealth Sport Foundation (CSF) via Birmingham 2022 and Sport England.

An evaluation report and three school case studies were produced to showcase the work that has been achieved through the programme:

• Improving connections and confidence through new sports opportunities (Kind Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy)
• Using new sports and greater social mixing to increase enjoyment of physical activity (King Edward VI Aston School)
• Building young people’s confidence and strengthening relationships between schools (Queensbridge School)

You can access the evaluation report and case studies on the right-hand side.