Hull FC Community Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its new youth engagement initiative, ‘Engage’, an e-sports programme aimed at empowering young people across West Hull.
Funded by the Humber Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP), the sessions will provide local 11 to 16-year-olds with a positive, engaging environment where they can develop essential life skills, build resilience, and foster pro-social identities.
‘Engage’ will be delivered twice a week at the Foundation’s Community Hub, located at West Park, next to the MKM Stadium. The sessions will offer young people the opportunity to participate in e-sports, including popular games such as EAFC25.
Through these activities, the programme aims to engage participants in meaningful ways, encouraging teamwork, communication, and confidence-building.
The sessions will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 5pm to 6.30pm. These sessions will not only feature e-sports but will also incorporate discussions and workshops focused on life skills, such as conflict resolution, resilience, and decision-making.
Ryan Gibbons, Youth Engagement Lead at Hull FC Community Foundation, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching the ‘Engage’ programme, which represents a great opportunity for young people in Hull to take part in something both exciting and beneficial.
“Thanks to the funding from the Humber VPP, we’re able to offer a space where young people can have fun, develop new skills, and form connections. E-sports is a fantastic way to build trust and provide a positive outlet, and we’re confident this will make a lasting impact on the young people who take part.”
The Foundation’s youth engagement team, which is highly trained in youth work and trauma-informed practices, will lead the sessions, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all participants. Staff will also work closely with the young people to help develop their personal goals and foster leadership, teamwork, and self-confidence.
Maisie Malton, Head of Programmes at Hull FC Community Foundation, added: “The Humber VPP’s funding has been a key enabler for us to expand our reach and offer a targeted programme that directly addresses the needs of young people in our community.
“Engage is about more than just gaming—it’s about building confidence, providing positive role models, and supporting personal growth. We’re committed to helping these young people develop skills they can use in all aspects of life, creating a lasting impact that will empower them both now and in the future.”
The ‘Engage’ sessions aim to not only provide a space for young people to have fun but also to equip them with the skills they need to thrive in everyday life, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional resilience.
For more information, please email ryan.gibbons@hullfc.com