One Big Family

Jess, Nottingham

We partnered with Nottingham City Council to share the personal stories of young people who took part in their Holiday Activity Fund (HAF) programme - an initiative led by the government aimed at providing support to young people during holiday periods.

Jess, 16, was a participant with the Nottingham Forest Community Trust and told us about her experiences with the programme.

Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your football life? 

My name is Jess, I live in Broxtowe, Nottingham. I am 16 and am in Year 11 at school. I have been going to football sessions with Evolve and Nottingham Forest for about five years now.

What did you try to show with the photos? Was there any wider meaning?

The photos were taken at Minver Holiday Club. In the photos are other young people and young leaders from the Holiday Club. The photos show how we have become one big family through our sessions. 

I like the photo of Tyler, a young person who I have helped in the past. He did not want to play pool but I persuaded him to play.

What do you like about Free Fun & Food (FFF)? How has it helped you?

I love my holiday sessions. Without them I would not have anything to do. They mean everything to me. The sessions have really helped me with my confidence. 

I really enjoyed the cooking sessions, as well as playing pool or when we got to try out boxing. 

I like that I can go along and see my friends. We are like a family. I also feel really safe at FFF and always know that we will have fun. 

What does football and sport mean to you? 

I love playing football and boxing. I want to inspire other young people to take part in our sessions.

What do you think the future looks like for football in Nottingham and England? 

I hope Nottingham Forest stays in the Premier League, and I hope more kids like me get the chance to play football with coaches in the community. Not everyone can afford to be in a team or has parents that can take them.