Sportspark, based at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, has made a donation of £806 to the Norwich Red Balloon Learner Centre. Red Balloon provide a safe environment for young people who are not able to attend mainstream school as a result of severe bullying and who may have developed severe anxieties and mental health issues as a result . With the support of the experienced staff at Red Balloon these vulnerable children are given the help they need to progress with their education and fulfil their potential.

Through Sportspark’s Charity Spinner scheme, which was relaunched earlier this year, Sportspark customers have the chance to offer small donations in return for a copy of the Eastern Daily Press or Norwich Evening News. Every charity that benefits from the monthly appeal is chosen by Sportspark customers and members of the community.

The Norwich Red Balloon Learner Centre will see the donation put to good use, as they continue to offer a place for bullied children to gain a quality education in a safe and supportive environment. Once a Red Balloon student has regained their confidence and is able to cope academically and socially the charity will support them in their return to a mainstream school and help with their progression into further education or employment.

Angela Francis, from Red Balloon Norwich, said “In the current financial climate it becomes more and more difficult for us to continue the work we do and one area that is very important is sporting activities. Sports are not just about getting or keeping fit, with us it is also about building up confidence, self-esteem, team building and body image. The money that has been raised will be used for this purpose.”

Sportspark Director, Phil Steele, said: “We are proud to support the commendable work that Red Balloon Norwich does for the local community. Red Balloon Learner Centre staff and unpaid volunteers work incredibly hard to provide an education for some of society’s most vulnerable and isolated children and I’d like to thank our customers for recognising this with their generous donations”.

Sportspark are still welcoming nominations for local charities to benefit from their monthly Charity Spinner Appeal. December’s charity is St Martin’s Housing Trust, which provides temporary accommodation for people in crisis and offer advice and support to help them get back on their feet. This Christmas, with the support of experienced staff and dedicated volunteers, St Martins will be providing beds for people who would otherwise be sleeping on the streets of Norwich.

For more information about Sportspark visit www.sportspark.co.uk