Welcome to RAPAR's community development page
Community development is a grassroots process where people from all communities come together to take action on what's important to them. It is rooted in the belief that all people should have access to health, wellbeing, wealth, justice and opportunity. RAPAR has been involved in many community development projects over the years - current and recent projects are on this page.
The Football Freedom Project has not only brought joy and unity but has also given hope and a sense of belonging to those who need it most. As we continue on this journey, let us embrace the power of football to transcend boundaries, create positive change, and build a world where everyone has the freedom to play and thrive. |
Addressing social issues through football
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RAPAR and Football for Humanity members at a game
Introducing the Football Freedom Project: Bringing Community Together Through Football
During the challenging times of COVID-19 lockdowns, when many people faced mental health issues, financial hardships, isolation, depression, and uncertainty, the Football Freedom Project was born. In collaboration with Football for Humanity, refugees, and individuals seeking asylum at RAPAR, this project was created with the belief that football could effectively address the needs of their community. Thanks to generous funding from Sport England through Greater Sport and the Manchester FA, the project has been able to uplift the community through various activities to this day.
Since its beginning, the Football Freedom Project has gained popularity and has seen an increasing numbers of people taking part. Every week, community members gather at a football pitch in Manchester to play friendly football matches, support one another, and socialise. This activity has not only brought joy to the participants but has also contributed to their mental well-being by providing a safe space for them to be active.
Through the Football Freedom Project, individuals have found a place to come together, form connections, and support each other. The project continues to make a positive impact on the lives of its members and remains dedicated to using the power of football to strengthen the community.
During the challenging times of COVID-19 lockdowns, when many people faced mental health issues, financial hardships, isolation, depression, and uncertainty, the Football Freedom Project was born. In collaboration with Football for Humanity, refugees, and individuals seeking asylum at RAPAR, this project was created with the belief that football could effectively address the needs of their community. Thanks to generous funding from Sport England through Greater Sport and the Manchester FA, the project has been able to uplift the community through various activities to this day.
Since its beginning, the Football Freedom Project has gained popularity and has seen an increasing numbers of people taking part. Every week, community members gather at a football pitch in Manchester to play friendly football matches, support one another, and socialise. This activity has not only brought joy to the participants but has also contributed to their mental well-being by providing a safe space for them to be active.
Through the Football Freedom Project, individuals have found a place to come together, form connections, and support each other. The project continues to make a positive impact on the lives of its members and remains dedicated to using the power of football to strengthen the community.
June 23rd, 2023: A Historic Day for Football Freedom
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June 23, 2023, will forever be remembered as a historic day for the members of Football Freedom. It was a day filled with unforgettable moments as participants from diverse backgrounds came together for a one-day event hosted by Bangor University and the North Wales Dragons. This extraordinary gathering not only introduced the participants to Welsh culture but also provided a much-needed escape through mindfulness and the joy of football.
The inception of the Football Freedom Project occurred during the challenging times of COVID-19 lockdowns, when mental health issues, financial hardships, isolation, depression, and overwhelming uncertainty were prevalent. In collaboration with refugees and people seeking asylum in RAPAR, the project was born out of the collective belief that football could effectively address the needs of their community. Thanks to funding from Sport England through Greater Sport and the Manchester FA, the project has continued to uplift the community through various activities up to the present day. During the week in Wales. Rahwa, one of the leaders of the Football Freedom Project, expressed her gratitude, stating, "This trip has been a dream come true. When we started the Football Freedom Project two years ago, we never imagined that something like this could happen. This day was especially remarkable as we not only had the opportunity to travel and visit Wales but also to celebrate Refugee Week in grand style. For most of our members, this visit to Wales is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am immensely pleased that we were able to make it happen. When we work together collaboratively, there is no limit to what we can achieve. A special thanks goes to Chris from the North Wales Dragons for his unwavering efforts in making this extraordinary day possible for us and to Chris Thomas from Football Humanity for his continuous support." Read the rest of the story here. |
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Reclaim The Stage
Listen here >>> For the past four months we have been working with community groups in Hulme and Bury. Through online workshops, discussions and writing the groups have devised original audio plays inspired by there experiences of the pandemic. |
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Voices of Lockdown - Bury Community Maria has always been a loud neighbour but now its lockdown and with tensions running high, Sally and Sharon cant take it anymore. Once locked up in there separate houses all three begin to reflect on the things they have lost. The play explores the idea that only by missing something can we know its value. In the Morning We Are Free - Hulme Community The end of lockdown ahs been announced, tomorrow the country is free. Paul, charlotte and john lie awake in their separate homes. Their minds are racing. They feel as though they are hurtling towards dawn and aren't sure if they are ready for the day. Both plays will be available to stream online from Saturday 27th February. Project facilitated by Kahlo Theatre and made possible by the generous support of the national lottery community fund. |
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Invisible Borders in the UK
This documentary explores the invisible borders in the UK. Borders, which act as barriers, preventing people from accessing essential parts of life. Listen here: >>> |
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Sad Reality
Bringing to life different scenes which capture the reality of life in the asylum system, living in the UK's hostile environment. From Dallas Court to destitution, dodgy solicitors and endless waiting. Using drumming and live sound to create the feeling of each struggle. See it here: >>> |
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An Incredible Week For The Banks
A story of two families, one African and one English, who become neighbours at the beginning of the week. An exploration of culture clash, misunderstanding, awkwardness and prejudice, which is challenges by the relationship between the children. A Romeo and Juliet story for modern times. Watch here: >>> |
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