Jubilee River Centre breaks down barriers to participation thanks to the HAF Project
The Jubilee Riverside Centre, partnered with Slough Borough Council is tackling the challenges faced by children from low-income families during each of the school holidays.
Throughout the rowing world, there are hidden gems tucked away from the spotlight, who’s aims of broadening participation send ripples through their community. One such diamond is the Jubilee River Centre in Slough.
Through a new rowing HAF project aimed at 11–16-year-olds, the Jubilee Riverside Centre is providing considerably more than just meals through Slough Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
The centre is also offering an experience of engaging in Learn to Row and water sports opportunities, as well nutritional education to improve well-being, and equipping young people, volunteers and staff with valuable coaching qualifications for longer sustainability. The initiative, which runs for four hours a day during a week of sessions has left a lasting impact on the young people, and their families.
British Rowing’s Head of Community Chris Farrell said “’It is fantastic to see the Jubilee Riverside Centre in Slough opening its doors to the Slough Community to deliver a HAF Project during each school holidays and using the power our sport of rowing to help.”
“Funded by the UK government, the HAF programme aims to provide free, enriching activities and healthy meals for children eligible for free school meals during school holidays,” explained Farrell
“The Riverside Centre, thanks to the brilliant work of lead Jamie Green, is helping local children and young people also engage in free learn to row opportunities, alongside supporting them in eating healthier, as well as being more active and taking part in a sport which they would not normally take part in. In return helping young people with the development of key life skills including resilience, character, well-being and teamwork.”
The benefits of the HAF project have extended long after the initial school holiday engagement. As a result of the programmes success, it has helped participants be invited to join their local community weekend sessions. Those wishing to continue their rowing journey have also been offered a British Rowing membership free of charge, ensuring that financial barriers are broken and they can continue to row without limitation.
The HAF project has created lasting benefits for the community. Families struggling with the additional costs of feeding their children during the holidays received nutritious meals, whilst young people gained cooking skills that will continue to serve them into the future. With a deeper understanding of nutrition, participants are now making healthier food choices as well as encouraging them to keep active alongside this.
Beyond the direct impact on young participants and their families, the Jubilee Riverside Centre continues to play a vital role in the wider community. The centre not only provides access to water sports but also promotes water safety.
Providing a safe alternative to open water swimming, the centre helps prevent dangerous activities on the river, educating young people on the risks of cold-water immersion and flood relief systems. Many of the young people who participated in the HAF project became vocal advocates for water safety and rowing, reinforcing the lessons they learned.
The project’s investment in coaching qualifications ensures the centre can continue offering free water sports activities. The extended relationship with British Rowing ensures the continued engagement of young people on their rowing journey. The Jubilee Riverside Centre remains committed to water safety and making the Jubilee River a safe and enjoyable space for all of the community.
