A new community initiative using the power of sport to support people affected by homelessness and social isolation has been launched by The Brick.
The Brick Home Team is an innovative project designed to help individuals rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing and reconnect with their community through regular, inclusive sports sessions across Wigan and Leigh.
Developed in response to the challenges faced by many people supported by The Brick, the project recognises that a lack of confidence, routine and access to positive activities can be significant barriers to moving forward. By harnessing Wigan’s strong sporting identity, Home Team provides a supportive and engaging environment where participants can improve both their physical and mental health while forming meaningful connections.
Kim Mannion from The Brick said: “Home Team is all about creating a sense of belonging. We know that many of the people we support have experienced isolation or a loss of confidence, and sport offers a powerful way to rebuild that. It’s not just about physical activity, it’s about connection, routine and feeling part of something again. We’re already seeing the difference it’s making, and we’re excited to grow the project and reach even more people across our communities.”
A key part of the programme is “Brick Boxing”, a non-contact, inclusive session delivered by coach Jonny Brown from Boxing for Better.
Jonny said: “Brick Boxing is a non-contact, non-judgemental group session that uses boxing as a tool to engage, build confidence, get fit and improve social skills. Everyone attending is improving every week, whether that’s their fitness, boxing ability or socially. The enthusiasm and dedication in every session creates a fun, high-energy class, it’s a fantastic little community and the highlight of my week.”
The project is also supported by local partners including local gym, Jetts Wigan, whose General Manager Ant Leyland has been instrumental in helping participants access fitness opportunities.
Ant said: “I got involved because I’m a local lad from Wigan and wanted to give something back. Being part of this project has been incredibly rewarding, hearing people’s stories and seeing how being active is helping them both physically and mentally really brings home the impact. Our members have also shown great community spirit, supporting with food donations. Initiatives like this show how even small contributions can make a big difference in tackling homelessness.”
Community interest organisation Sport Rebooted is also working in partnership with The Brick, helping to remove financial barriers to participation by providing access to sports equipment.
Directors Andy Gore and Mark Glover said: “Our mission has always been to make sport accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Partnering with The Brick Home Team strengthens that vision, allowing us to support more people across Wigan. Sport has the power to build confidence, resilience and community, and together we can ensure cost is never a barrier to taking part.”
Looking ahead, The Brick plans to expand Home Team with more regular sessions and additional partnerships, enabling more people to benefit from the positive impact of sport.
The charity is calling on local businesses, sports organisations and individuals to support the initiative through sponsorship, equipment donations, fundraising or volunteering.
Every contribution will help more people rebuild confidence, improve their wellbeing and feel part of their community again.
To support The Brick Home Team or to get involved contact: kim.mannion@thebrick.org.uk
