Medway Falcons Handball Club are among many organisations in Kent to take advantage of a £195m government support package.

Funding is being made available to help sports clubs, community sport and physical activity organisations who are struggling because of the coronavirus crisis.

Regardless of the size of the club, many organisations in Kent are experiencing short term financial hardship.

Sport England has said the money committed through the Community Emergency Fund will help their partners, clubs and community organisations cope with the short and long-term impact of the pandemic.

Alicia Neville, secretary and funding officer of the Medway Falcons, said: "When we were alerted to the fund we quickly came to the decision that, because many of our players and players' parents may be in times of financial uncertainty, we should apply to try and secure a future for our club post-lockdown.

“We are a small club and we have limited funds to keep us afloat, so the Emergency Funding from Sport England has saved us from financial difficulty.

“It was very straightforward and user-friendly application process. In the meantime, the players and coaches are keeping in touch with each other and are keeping fit and sharing videos and photos of our exercise exploits during lockdown.”

Kent Sport, meanwhile, have launched their Everyday Active Small Grant, in partnership with Kent Trust for Youth Sport, in which approximately £40k of funding is being provided to support clubs and organisations in two key areas.

The funding is available to inspire clubs and organisations who have innovative ideas and projects that encourage and support people who are affected by the impact of Covid-19 to be active.

Funding will also support clubs and organisations to return to action.

Olympia Boxing, from Maidstone, recently received a National Lottery grant from Kent Sport through the Satellite Club programme.

Director Wayne Smith said: "The process of applying for funding was very simple and quick. Kent Sport is also there to help you through the application if you get stuck. The funding has been invaluable in helping our organisation keep moving forward and to also allow our coaches to continue earning.

“Instead of delivering satellite classes in a classroom, our coaching is now delivered virtually to the vulnerable and key workers children, who are still at school.

“Because our boxing exercises do not involve contact our clients are remaining happy and staying fit! However, as soon as lockdown is lifted, we will be back working on a face to face basis.”

Kent Sport is posting regular funding updates on its website to help local clubs with their application process and to also support and give advice on ideas to keep their club and members physically active during these times.

They are also supporting a national Sport England campaign #StayInWorkOut, giving advice on how to get active at home.

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