Coaching for Hope is an innovative programme which uses football to create better futures for young people in West and Southern Africa. (Part of the international volunteering and development charity, Skillshare International.)

Tapping into the universal passion for football and organise coaching courses where professional coaches from the UK train local youth workers to recognised FA standards. At the same time, the local coaches learn how to deliver HIV awareness sessions to young people in their communities. Once the UK coaches leave, the programmes staff provide ongoing support to the graduates. This means they can deliver Coaching for Hope sessions and develop training initiatives of their own.

So far, about 4,000 children have benefited from football and HIV awareness sessions and over 400 coaches have been through Coaching for Hope courses.

The kids who benefit are vulnerable - often orphans or with disabilities. They have little access to sport and health education. The chance to play football in proper kit and take part in a tournament can be a life-changing experience, which raises their confidence and self-esteem and builds valuable life skills.

Please go visit www.coachingforhope.org