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Social Impact Fund: Helping grassroots ice hockey grow through community funding
At Billingham Ice Hockey Club, the sports organisation has a proven track record of developing players of all abilities and age groups, with players selected for England Junior National Teams and GB Junior Programmes.
The club was recently nominated by an NCFE colleague to receive £500 in funding through our Social Impact Fund, with this support helping to keep participation in the sport affordable, accessible and inclusive.
As an educational charity, our Social Impact Fund provides one‑off grants each quarter to support a single charitable initiative that helps advance learning in communities, enabling colleagues to champion projects that create meaningful and accessible educational opportunities.
Being one of only two ice hockey clubs in the North East, the teams regularly travel across the country to compete. The Social Impact Fund has helped to offset these travel costs – particularly for the newly established Under 12s Division 2 team, where a subsidised team bus to Telford offered vital support for parents and families during what can be a costly season.
The funding will also go towards club training aids, net repairs, pucks, insurance and system repairs. These improvements help maintain a safe, professional and inspiring environment for all players, from those just starting out in the sport through to older age groups.
Paul McDonnell, Under 12s North 2 Manager at the club, said: “The NCFE Social Impact Fund donation has made an immediate and meaningful difference to Billingham Junior Ice Hockey Club.
"Grassroots sport relies heavily on community backing, and this funding has already made a real difference across the entire club.”
Pictured: Billingham Ice Hockey Club players on the ice
The club measured the outcomes of the funding through several indicators: full team attendance at away games, improved operational readiness and positive feedback from parents and coaches.
In total, more than 200 players aged 5-19, along with around 150 parents, coaches and volunteers, will have benefited from the enhanced equipment.
Paul explained the impact of the funding, sharing: “By easing financial pressures, the donation has supported parents, coaches, and most importantly our young players of this team, giving them the best possible chance to enjoy and succeed in the game.”
Pictured: A team talk takes place with Billingham Ice Hockey Club players and coaches
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By easing financial pressures, the donation has supported parents, coaches, and most importantly our young players of this team, giving them the best possible chance to enjoy and succeed in the game."
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