What Are Community Sports Programs in Medway?
Community sports programs in Medway are organised activities delivered by local clubs, councils, and charities to help young people stay active and engaged. These programs range from free drop- in sessions to structured multi- sport clubs, and they are designed for children of all backgrounds and abilities.
Here is the thing. Nearly one in three children in Kent and Medway are not getting the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity each day. That is a problem. Community sports programs exist to change that by removing barriers like cost, location, and accessibility.
At Sport on Your Doorstep, we have been delivering sports and educational programs across Medway since 2019. We work with schools, youth centres, and community groups to bring sport directly to underserved neighbourhoods. Our mission is simple: place young people at the centre of everything we do.
Why Do Community Sports Programs Matter?
You might be wondering why these programs are such a big deal. The answer goes beyond just getting kids to run around.
Community sports programs:
- Provide a safe space for young people during evenings and school holidays- Build confidence, teamwork, and social skills- Create positive relationships between young people and trusted adult coaches- Help reduce antisocial behaviour and youth crime- Support mental health and emotional wellbeing- Give families access to affordable activities
According to Sport England's Active Lives Survey, only 47.8% of children in England are meeting the Chief Medical Officer's activity guidelines. In Kent and Medway specifically, that figure sits at around 45.2% . These numbers show why accessible, community- based sports provision is so important.
What Types of Community Sports Programs Are Available in Medway?
Medway has a range of community sports options. Here is a breakdown of the main types available.
Drop-In Sports Sessions
Drop- in sessions are informal, no- commitment activities where young people can turn up and play. There is no need to book in advance. These sessions typically include:
- Football- Basketball- Multi-sport activities- Tennis- Cricket
Many drop- in sessions in Medway are completely free, funded by Medway Council or community safety partnerships.
The Fit and Fed Programme
The Fit and Fed programme supports families struggling with food costs during school holidays. It combines free sports activities with nutritious meals. Children on free school meals can access these sessions at no cost during Easter, summer, and Christmas breaks.
This is one of the programs we deliver at Sport on Your Doorstep. It is a lifeline for families facing financial pressures.
Multi-Sport Youth Clubs
Multi- sport clubs offer variety. Instead of focusing on one sport, young people try different activities each week. This approach keeps things fresh and helps children discover what they enjoy.
Sessions might include:
Dodgeball Rounders Kwik cricket Tag rugby Dance and movement
School-Based Programs
Many community sports providers, including Sport on Your Doorstep, deliver programs directly in schools. We work with primary schools, secondary schools, PRUs (Pupil Referral Units), and SEND schools across Kent.
Our school programs include:
PE curriculum delivery Before school clubs Lunchtime activities After school sports clubs School holiday camps
These sessions support the national curriculum while giving children who might not enjoy traditional PE a chance to try something different in a relaxed environment.
How Much Do Community Sports Programs Cost in Medway?
Cost is often the biggest barrier stopping families from getting involved in sport. The good news is that many community programs in Medway are free or very affordable.
Cost Comparison Table
| Program Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Drop-in sessions | Free | Funded by councils or partnerships |
| Fit and Fed (HAF) | Free | For children on free school meals |
| Multi-sport clubs | Free to £5 per session | Varies by provider |
| Council sports camps | £15 to £25 per day | Medway Sport Premier Members get 20% off |
| Private sports clubs | £30 to £60 per month | Memberships and kit costs apply |
Which Programs Are Completely Free?
Several programs in Medway cost nothing at all:
Drop- in sports sessions at parks and community centres Fit and Fed holiday activities for eligible families Youth centre sports sessions (ages 8 to 19) Some school- based after school clubs
What Funded Places Are Available Through HAF?
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is funded by the Department for Education. It provides free places for children aged 5 to 16 who receive benefit- related free school meals. Sessions are available during Easter, summer, and Christmas holidays.
To check eligibility and book places, visit MedwayGo or contact your child's school.
How to Find and Join a Community Sports Program in Medway
Finding the right program for your child does not have to be complicated. Here is a simple step- by- step guide.
Step 1: Identify What Your Child Wants to Try
Start by having a conversation with your child. Ask them:
1 What sports have they enjoyed before? 2 Do they prefer team activities or individual challenges? 3 Are they looking to compete or just have fun?
There is no wrong answer. The goal is to find something that gets them excited.
Step 2: Check Local Resources and Directories
Medway has several online directories where you can search for activities:
Medway Council Find a Sport: Lists all registered sports clubs in Medway - Everyday Active Kent: Searchable activity finder for Kent and Medway - MedwayGo: Holiday activity bookings for eligible families
You can also get in touch with us directly to find out what sessions are running in your area.
Step 3: Contact the Provider and Ask Key Questions
Before signing up, ask the provider:
Are coaches DBS checked? What is the staff- to- child ratio? Is equipment provided? What are the cancellation policies? Can my child attend a taster session first?
Good providers will be happy to answer these questions. If they are not, that is a red flag.
Step 4: Attend a Taster Session
Most community sports programs offer taster sessions. This gives your child a chance to try the activity without committing. It also lets you see the coaching style and environment.
If your child enjoys it, great. If not, try something else. The important thing is finding an activity that keeps them engaged.
Top 10 Benefits of Community Sports for Young People
Community sports offer far more than just physical exercise. Here are the top 10 benefits backed by research and our own experience delivering programs across Medway.
1. Improved Physical Health: Regular activity reduces the risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Children who are active tend to stay active into adulthood.
2. Better Mental Wellbeing: Exercise releases endorphins. Sport helps reduce anxiety, stress, and symptoms of depression in young people.
3. Increased Confidence: Mastering new skills and being part of a team builds self-esteem. We see this transformation in our sessions all the time.
4. Social Skill Development: Team sports teach communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. These are life skills that transfer beyond the pitch.
5. Sense of Belonging: Being part of a club or group gives young people a sense of identity and community.
6. Positive Role Models: Coaches and volunteers provide mentorship. For some children, this is their first consistent relationship with a supportive adult outside of family.
7. Reduced Antisocial Behaviour: Research shows that sport-based programs can reduce youth crime and antisocial behaviour. We will cover this in more detail below.
8. Academic Improvements: Studies link regular physical activity to better concentration, attendance, and academic performance.
9. Healthy Routines: Regular sports sessions create structure and routine, which is especially valuable during school holidays.
10. Fun and Enjoyment: Let us not forget the obvious. Sport should be fun. When children enjoy what they are doing, they want to keep doing it.
Where Can You Find Community Sports Programs Across Medway?
Medway covers a large area with five main towns. Here is where to find activities in each.
Sports Programs in Chatham
Chatham has several active community sports locations:
Chalk Pit Park: Weekly multi- sport sessions Luton Millennium Green: Family pop- up sport sessions Pentagon Shopping Centre: WREC Room youth activities
We deliver regular sessions at schools in Chatham, including Luton Primary School and New Road Primary School.
Sports Programs in Rochester
Rochester offers a mix of club and council- run activities:
Jackson's Field: Family workouts and sports sessions Victoria Gardens: Outdoor activities during summer months Local youth centres: Drop- in sessions for ages 8 to 19
Sports Programs in Gillingham
Gillingham is home to Medway Park Sports Centre, one of the region's main sports facilities. Activities include:
Mini Youth Sports Camps during school holidays Drop- in basketball sessions with Kent Crusaders coaches Disability sports clubs Swimming lessons and aquatic programs
The Garrison Grounds also hosts free community sports sessions.
Sports Programs in Strood and Hoo Peninsula
Strood Sports Centre offers affordable gym access, swimming, and fitness classes. The Hoo Peninsula has:
Hoo Institute Hall: Free multi- sport sessions St James Recreational Field in Grain: Summer activity programs Youth clubs at Hoo and Isle of Grain
We work across all these areas. Contact us to find sessions near you.
How Are Community Sports Helping Reduce Youth Crime in Medway?
This is something we feel strongly about at Sport on Your Doorstep. Sport is not just about getting fit. It can genuinely change lives and make communities safer.
The Evidence
According to the UK Government, around 80% of prolific adult offenders began committing crimes as children. Breaking this cycle early is crucial.
In 2023, the Ministry of Justice invested £5 million into the Youth Justice Sport Fund. This supported over 220 community sports organisations to deliver targeted programs for young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system.
The Youth Endowment Fund reports that sports programs can have a "high" impact on reducing youth crime and violence. The key factors are:
Consistent, regular sessions (not one- off events) Trusted relationships between coaches and young people Safe spaces where children feel valued Pathways to volunteering and coaching roles
What We Have Seen in Medway
In our experience delivering programs in underserved communities, we have seen firsthand how sport disrupts the cycle of youth crime. Boredom and alienation are often the root causes of antisocial behaviour. When young people have somewhere to go, something to do, and someone to talk to, outcomes improve.
A Youth Worker in Northfleet told us: "The weekly sessions are the highlight of our youth club's week. Beyond the fun and games, these sessions provide a crucial sense of stability and routine for the young people."
Our programs work closely with the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit and Kent Police to support at- risk young people through sport.
What Trends Are Shaping Community Sports in 2026?
The community sports landscape is evolving. Here are the key trends we are seeing this year.
Increased HAF Funding and Expansion
The Holiday Activities and Food programme continues to grow. More providers are joining the scheme, which means more free places for eligible families. Expect to see expanded summer programs across Medway in 2026.
Greater Focus on Mental Health
There is growing recognition that physical activity supports mental wellbeing. Providers are increasingly training coaches in trauma- informed approaches and mental health first aid. Programs are being designed with emotional wellbeing in mind, not just physical fitness.
Growth in Multi-Sport Programs
Single- sport specialisation is falling out of favour for younger children. Research shows that multi- sport programs reduce burnout and injury while developing broader physical literacy. Expect to see more variety in community offerings.
Technology Integration
While sport itself remains physical, technology is playing a bigger role in booking, communication, and engagement. Apps like MedwayGo make it easier for families to find and book activities.
Community-Led Design
The best programs involve young people in their design and delivery. We are seeing more youth- led initiatives where teenagers help shape what activities are offered and how they are run. This increases engagement and ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are community sports programs in Medway free?
Many community sports programs in Medway are completely free. This includes drop- in sessions funded by Medway Council and the Fit and Fed holiday programme. Paid sessions typically cost between £3 and £5 per session. Some club memberships may cost more.
What age can my child start community sports programs?
Most community sports programs in Medway accept children from age 5 upwards. Multi- sport sessions often cater for ages 7 to 11. Youth clubs typically serve ages 8 to 19, with some extending to 25 for young people with additional needs. Check individual programs for specific age ranges.
How do I know if my child qualifies for free holiday activities?
Children aged 5 to 16 who receive benefit- related free school meals qualify for free HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) places. These are available during Easter, summer, and Christmas holidays. Contact your child's school or visit MedwayGo to check eligibility and book.
Do community sports programs help with youth crime prevention?
Yes. Research shows that sport- based programs can reduce antisocial behaviour and reoffending. The UK Government invested £5 million in Youth Justice Sport Funds, recognising sport's power to divert young people from crime. Consistent sessions with trusted coaches are key to success.
What sports are available for children with disabilities in Medway?
Medway offers disability- specific sessions including wheelchair basketball, boccia, multi- sport disability clubs, and sensory swimming at Strood Leisure Centre. Medway Park hosts regular inclusive events. Many mainstream programs also welcome children with additional needs. Sessions typically cost £3 or are free for those with carers.
What should I look for when choosing a community sports program?
Look for DBS- checked coaches, appropriate staff- to- child ratios, inclusive environments, and clear safeguarding policies. Ask about taster sessions, cancellation policies, and whether equipment is provided. A good program will welcome questions and be transparent about their approach.
Is community sport only for sporty kids?
No. Community sports programs are designed for all abilities, not just athletic children. The focus is on fun, social skills, and confidence- building rather than competition. Many children who dislike school PE thrive in community settings where the pressure is lower and the atmosphere more relaxed.
Conclusion
Community sports programs in Medway offer something valuable for every child. Whether your family is looking for free holiday activities, after school clubs, or a way to help a reluctant child get active, there are options available.
The benefits go far beyond fitness. Young people who take part in community sports build confidence, make friends, develop life skills, and connect with positive role models. For some, it can be the difference between a positive path and a negative one.
At Sport on Your Doorstep, we are proud to be part of this movement. Since 2019, we have been delivering programs in schools and communities across Kent and Medway. We work with councils, charities, and partners like Active Kent and Medway to make sport accessible for everyone.
If you are a parent looking for activities for your child, a school wanting to enhance your PE provision, or a community group seeking sports delivery, we would love to hear from you.
Ready to get involved? Talk to us today to find out about our programs across Medway. Or book a camp to secure your child's place at our next session.
Written by Sport on Your Doorstep, a Community Interest Company delivering sports and educational programs across Kent and Medway since 2019. Company Number: 12332362.