Community sports in Chatham offer free and low cost activities for young people aged 5 to 19 through Medway Council, Sport on Your Doorstep, and local youth centres. These community sports Chatham programmes include football, basketball, tennis, cricket, dodgeball, and multi- sport sessions. They run at locations like Maidstone Road Recreation Ground, Luton Millennium Green, and Chatham Youth Centre. Most drop- in sessions cost nothing and welcome children of all abilities.
According to Sport England, only 49.1% of children in England currently meet the Chief Medical Officer's guidelines for physical activity. That means over half of young people are not getting enough exercise. Community sports programmes help close this gap by removing barriers like cost and accessibility.
Here is the thing: finding the right programme for your child does not have to be difficult. This guide covers everything you need to know about free youth sports in Chatham and the surrounding Medway area. We will explain what is available, who can access it, and how to get started.
What Are Community Sports Programmes in Chatham?
Community sports programmes are organised activities designed to get young people active in their local area. Unlike private clubs with membership fees, these sessions focus on inclusion. They welcome everyone regardless of skill level, background, or income.
In Chatham and the wider Medway area, several organisations run these programmes:
Medway Council runs drop- in sports sessions at parks, recreation grounds, and sports centres Sport on Your Doorstep delivers programmes in schools and communities across Kent Medway Youth Service operates youth centres with sports activities for ages 10 to 17 Everyday Active Kent coordinates a directory of local activities Local sports clubs offer beginner sessions and taster events
Sport on Your Doorstep is a community interest company that places young people at the centre of everything they do. They design and deliver high quality sports and educational programmes specifically for underserved, low income communities. Their mission is to create lasting change by removing barriers to sport and physical activity. You can learn more about their approach on the Sport on Your Doorstep website.
What Free Sports Activities Are Available for Young People?
Chatham has a good range of free sports for children and teenagers. These sessions are funded by the council, the National Lottery, Sport England, and community safety partnerships.
Where Are Free Drop-In Sessions Held?
Where Are Free Drop- In Sessions Held?- Maidstone Road Tennis Courts, Chatham: Free tennis sessions, no booking required- Luton Millennium Green, Chatham: Pop- up multi- sport sessions during term time- Chatham Youth Centre: Indoor activities for ages 10 to 16- Jackson's Field, Rochester: Weekly sports sessions- Victoria Gardens, Chatham: Family Tai Chi and active play sessions
What Sports Can Young People Try?
The variety is impressive. Most programmes rotate activities so children can try different sports:
Football Basketball Tennis Cricket Doddgball Rounders Boxing and martial arts Table tennis Gymnastics Multi- sport sessions combining several activities
How to Find Youth Clubs and After School Activities in Chatham
You might be wondering where to start. Finding the right programme takes a few simple steps.
Step by Step Guide for Parents
Step 1: Check the Medway Council website for official drop- in sessions and youth centre schedules- Step 2: Search Everyday Active Kent for a directory of local activities filtered by location- Step 3: Contact Sport on Your Doorstep to ask about programmes in your area- Step 4: Visit your nearest youth centre. Staff can explain what sessions run and when- Step 5: Check your child's school newsletter. Many schools partner with sports providers for after school clubs- Step 6: Ask about MedwayGo if your child receives free school meals. This unlocks hundreds of free holiday activities
Sport on Your Doorstep works directly in schools across Kent, including primary schools, secondary schools, PRUs, and SEND schools. Their flexible programmes support the PE curriculum during school hours and extend into popular clubs before, during, and after school.
Top 10 Benefits of Community Sports for Children
Research from the Mental Health Foundation shows that physical activity can reduce the risk of depression by up to 30% . The benefits go far beyond fitness.
1. Improved Physical Fitness
Regular activity builds strength, coordination, and stamina. Children who exercise are healthier and have more energy.
2. Better Mental Health
Exercise releases chemicals that boost mood. Active children report feeling happier and less anxious.
3. Social Skills Development
Team sports teach children how to communicate, cooperate, and make friends.
4. Improved Academic Performance
Studies show that active children concentrate better in school and achieve higher grades.
5. Confidence Building
Learning new skills and achieving goals helps children believe in themselves.
6. Teamwork and Leadership
Group activities teach children to work together and support each other.
7. Discipline and Routine
Regular sessions create structure and teach commitment.
8. Reduced Screen Time
Sports give children a reason to put down devices and be present.
9. Community Connection
Local programmes help families feel part of their neighbourhood.
10. Safer Communities
Sport on Your Doorstep works with the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit because evidence shows that positive activities reduce antisocial behaviour and youth crime.
Cost of Youth Sports Programmes in Chatham
One of the biggest barriers to sport is cost. The good news is that many options in Chatham are completely free.
| Programme Type | Cost | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Council drop-in sessions | Free | Tennis, multi-sport, basketball |
| Youth centre activities | Free | Chatham Youth Centre sessions |
| MedwayGo holiday activities | Free (FSM eligible) | Summer camps, half term activities |
| Inclusive disability sessions | First session free, then around £3 | Multi-sport club at Medway Park |
| Local sports clubs | Varies: £3 to £8 per session | Football clubs, gymnastics, swimming |
Sport on Your Doorstep focuses specifically on low income, underserved communities. Many of their sessions are funded by partners including the National Lottery Community Fund, Sport England, and Safer Streets initiatives.
Who Is Eligible for Free Sports Sessions?
Most council run drop- in sessions are open to everyone. No registration or proof of eligibility is needed. Just turn up.
For funded programmes like MedwayGo, children must be receiving benefits related free school meals. This programme runs during school holidays and offers hundreds of activities including sports, dance, drama, and day trips. Meals are provided.
Some programmes target specific areas with higher levels of deprivation. The Safer Streets initiative funds sessions in certain postcodes to help build safer communities.
If you are unsure whether your child qualifies, contact the provider directly. They will be happy to explain the options available to you.
What Sports Options Exist for Children with Additional Needs?
Inclusive sport matters. Children with disabilities or additional needs deserve the same opportunities to be active.
Medway offers several inclusive programmes:
Multi Sport Club at Medway Park: Weekly sessions including wheelchair tennis, badminton, boccia, and more. First session is free. Disability swim sessions at Strood Leisure Centre: Fun sessions in the hydrotherapy pool. Chatham Ski Centre: Sit ski sessions for those with physical disabilities. ROCC and ROCCstars: Holiday activities for children and young people with ASD and learning difficulties.
Sport on Your Doorstep delivers programmes in SEND schools and works with young people of diverse needs. Their approach is inclusive by design, considering age groups, genders, and vulnerabilities in every programme.
Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid
Getting your child into community sports should be straightforward. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Not checking session times before arriving. Schedules change. Always confirm before travelling. Missing eligibility requirements. Some funded programmes need proof of free school meals. Over scheduling children. One or two activities per week is plenty. Rest matters too. Ignoring your child's preferences. Let them choose sports they enjoy, not what you think they should do. Skipping the trial session. Most clubs offer tasters. Use them to check if the environment suits your child.
What Is New for Community Sports in 2026?
The landscape for youth sports is evolving. Here are the key developments this year:
Increased Government Investment
2025- 26. This funding helps primary schools improve PE provision and create sustainable improvements to sport.
Sport England Movement Fund
Community organisations can apply for grants up to £15,000 for physical activity projects. This supports local initiatives that help people facing barriers to activity.
New PlayZone Facilities
Plans for three new PlayZone facilities in Medway are underway, creating more spaces for young people to be active.
Focus on Mental Health
Programmes increasingly recognise the link between physical activity and wellbeing. Expect more sessions designed to support mental health alongside fitness.
Partnership Working
Organisations like Sport on Your Doorstep are building strong partnerships with councils, police, health services, and schools to deliver joined up support for young people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there completely free sports activities for children in Chatham?
Yes. Medway Council runs free drop- in sessions at locations like Maidstone Road Tennis Courts and Luton Millennium Green. Sport on Your Doorstep delivers free multi- sport sessions funded by Safer Streets and the National Lottery. MedwayGo offers free holiday activities for children on free school meals.
What age groups can access youth sports programmes in Chatham?
Most programmes cater for ages 8 to 19. Some youth centres accept children from age 10, while MedwayGo covers ages 5 to 16. Check with individual providers for specific age requirements.
Do I need to book sports sessions in advance?
Most council and Sport on Your Doorstep sessions are drop- in with no booking required. Some activities like swimming lessons or gymnastics classes need advance booking. Youth centres generally operate on a drop- in basis.
What equipment do children need to bring?
Most free sessions provide all equipment. Children should wear comfortable clothes and trainers. For specific sports like swimming, they will need appropriate kit. Water bottles are always recommended.
Is it true that sports only benefit sporty children?
This is a myth. Community sports focus on participation, not competition. Research shows all children benefit from physical activity regardless of ability. Many programmes are specifically designed for children who do not enjoy traditional PE.
What holiday activities are available in Chatham?
MedwayGo runs hundreds of free holiday activities for children eligible for free school meals. Sport on Your Doorstep operates summer camps and holiday programmes. Youth centres often extend their hours during school holidays.
How do community sports help reduce youth crime?
Sport builds safer, stronger communities. Programmes disrupt the cycle of youth crime, which is often fuelled by boredom and lack of positive activities. Qualified staff and local volunteers channel energy positively, empowering at risk young people to thrive.
Conclusion
Community sports programmes in Chatham offer genuine opportunities for young people to get active, make friends, and build confidence. With free sessions available across the area, cost should not be a barrier.
The benefits are clear: better physical health, improved mental wellbeing, stronger social skills, and safer communities. Whether your child loves football or has never tried sport before, there is something for them.
Start by checking what is available locally. Visit your nearest youth centre, search Everyday Active Kent, or contact Sport on Your Doorstep to learn about programmes in your area.
Ready to get your child active?
Sport on Your Doorstep delivers high quality sports programmes for young people across Kent. Get in touch today to find out how we can help your child. You can also book a camp or explore the rest of our website to learn more about our mission.