Rossendale Borough Council and Rossendale Works have launched a new scheme designed to help unemployed residents secure work through community sport.
The Old Boots, New Dreams initiative aims to collect at least 50 pairs of football boots, in sizes 5 to 12, suitable for 3G pitches.
These boots will be distributed to individuals taking part in Rossendale Works’ employability programme, which uses sport to help people build confidence and develop the essential skills needed for work.
According to Paul Becouarn, the project lead at Rossendale Works, many participants have no footwear of their own and often have to share boots, a situation that can limit their full participation and slow their progress in the employability programme.
“Through initiatives like this, we’ve seen real progress, not only in employment outcomes but in confidence, wellbeing and social connections,” he said.
Sport as a route into work
By using sport as a tool for engagement, Rossendale Works has successfully connected with unemployed people and built a strong sense of community, showing the effectiveness of its approach.
The initiative includes a series of structured sessions designed to help participants establish regular routines and develop key soft skills, such as teamwork and effective communication.
These sessions bring together people from diverse backgrounds and foster a supportive environment where everyone can grow and reach their full potential.
The campaign is also seeking financial backing through donations, with contributions welcomed via its JustGiving page.
Council Leader Alyson Barnes voiced her support for the campaign, saying, “By supporting Old Boots, New Dreams, we’re helping ensure that something as simple as lacking the right footwear doesn’t stand in the way of someone rebuilding their future.”
She added that the activities reflect the campaign’s broader aim to break down barriers and create practical routes for individuals to reconnect with employment and community life.
