Flintoff Shows Need For Inspirational Youth Workers – Jamie Masraff

Freddie Flintoff’s BBC One show Field of Dreams has profoundly impacted viewers by demonstrating the life-changing effects of providing young people with opportunities. Flintoff’s initiative, which established a cricket team for 11 disadvantaged boys in Preston, highlights the crucial need for inspirational youth workers who can transform lives through passion, skill development, and encouragement.

Jamie Masraff, CEO of OnSide, underscores how Flintoff’s work has brought this need into sharp focus. With over one in ten 18-25 year-olds not engaged in employment, education, or training, the demand for effective youth support is more pressing than ever. The closure of 760 youth centers since 2013 further amplifies this urgent need.

In response, OnSide is committed to expanding its reach with the addition of seven new Youth Zones by 2025, including one in Preston—the very community where Flintoff’s journey began. These new Youth Zones will provide vibrant spaces where thousands of young people can explore their interests, guided by skilled youth workers, for just 50p a session.

This expansion aims to offer critical support and opportunities to help young people discover their potential and achieve their goals. As OnSide continues to grow its network, the organisation invites more philanthropists to invest in this vital cause, ensuring that every young person has the chance to thrive.

To read the full article in The Times and learn more about OnSide’s plans, visit The Times Article and for additional information about OnSide’s Youth Zones, visit OnSide’s website.