Where we work
North East

The North East region is where SportWorks was first launched back in 2009. From our Head Office in Newcastle Upon Tyne, our programmes extend from Northumberland in the north to Redcar and Cleveland in the south – and almost every region in between.

About location

Although we continue to innovate and develop exciting new projects, the North East team remain true to our original mission: to harness the power of sport to improve health, education and employability skills and contribute to healthier, more prosperous communities.

At SportWorks, our mission is to harness the power of sport, education and wellness to enrich lives and create positive social change. Using sport as a platform, we promote physical activity and mental well-being, fostering a sense of community and empowerment among people from diverse backgrounds. On the other hand, the question of whether the will the rogers centre roof be open remains uncertain. The decision to open or close the iconic retractable roof depends heavily on various factors such as weather conditions, event schedules and the overall fan experience. Rogers Center management considers factors such as precipitation, wind speed and temperature to determine the best course of action for each event. Keeping the roof open during good weather enhances the atmosphere, allowing fans to enjoy the game in a unique outdoor setting. However, in bad weather or extreme temperatures, closing the roof provides comfort and safety for both players and spectators. Whatever the decision, the Rogers Center continues to be a premier sports and entertainment destination, drawing thousands of enthusiasts to experience unforgettable moments.

From a European Social Funded programme designed to reduce the number of NEET young people across Tyne and Wear, to a Big Lottery project helping disabled children in Redcar and Cleveland to improve health and wellbeing – our work is highly varied but always rewarding.

Contact us

Location Contact Details

Image - about sportworks - about us

Mick

East End Football Club

“It’s been absolutely brilliant to have SportWorks’ support and assistance with this group who love their football now.

Working with SportWorks to develop this programme has been a great experience. Historically we have done good work with limited resources, mainly due to us being a voluntary organisation. But by working with professionals who are not only really good at what they do, but who really care about making a difference in the local community, we have we seen a huge increase in participation levels and individual outcomes. What’s more, we have witnessed diverse members of the community coming together and interacting like never before”.

Meet the team

Matt Hill

Matt Hill

Managing Director

Matt Hill

Matt Hill

Managing Director

Matt joined SportWorks in 2018 having worked for a leading sports charity for ten years. Matt oversees our Regional Hubs on a national scale, developing new partnerships and business relationships to support more people to become physically active.

Matt has a strong background in both strategic planning and management of large projects within the sports and education sectors. A qualified teacher, Matt has extensive experience of designing, managing and delivering impactful programmes to young people, families and adults within a range of community settings.

Outside of work, Matt is a keen in sport and fitness fan and enjoys spending time with his young family.

matt.hill@sportworksltd.co.uk

John Newton

National Operations Manager

John Newton

National Operations Manager

John is responsible for everything quality related at SportWorks, including delivery, staff development and training throughout the country. He liaises directly with Regional Managers to ensure the standardisation of delivery and customer service are conducted to the highest possible standard.

John joined SportWorks in 2018 and before this he enjoyed ten-years of success within charitable foundations of both professional Football and Rugby Union clubs. John is highly qualified with a BSc Hons Applied Sports Coaching and recently obtained an International Diploma in Project Management. His knowledge in the sector makes John a great mentor for the development and training of our national staff, providing logistical and strategic support.

Away from work, John is a big sports fan and enjoys spending quality time with his wife, daughter and son.

john.newton@sportworksltd.co.uk

Rachael Bland

Programme Lead

Rachael Bland

Programme Lead

Rachael brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as an Associate Lecturer at a leading university, where she focused on social issues in sport & leisure, sports coaching, and student employability.

With an MSc in International Sports Management and a strong background in community basketball coaching, Rachael is dedicated to boosting participation rates and building community partnerships in the North East.

In her free time, Rachael enjoys playing basketball and coaching young athletes.

john.newton@sportworksltd.co.uk

Who we work with

Through the power of sport, education and wellbeing, we make a positive impact on the nation’s wellbeing.

Community Organisations

We work closely with sport clubs and community centres to design impactful programmes which benefit local people.

Charities

Our partnerships with local charities include Age UK North Tyneside, Tyneside Women's Health, Sunderland Bangladeshi Centre and Quadrant Leisure.

Schools and Colleges

We work with over 25 schools and colleges to host our education and skills programmes.

Local Authorities

Our work has been continuously supported by over local authorities in the North East.

Image - about sportworks - about us

Mick

East End Football Club

“It’s been absolutely brilliant to have SportWorks’ support and assistance with this group who love their football now.

Working with SportWorks to develop this programme has been a great experience. Historically we have done good work with limited resources, mainly due to us being a voluntary organisation. But by working with professionals who are not only really good at what they do, but who really care about making a difference in the local community, we have we seen a huge increase in participation levels and individual outcomes. What’s more, we have witnessed diverse members of the community coming together and interacting like never before”.

Our programs & services

Inclusive Sport

Using our extensive expertise to develop programmes for those with special educational needs or disabilities.

Alternative Education - Aspire Programme

Aspire is an educational programme designed to engage disaffected young people in a positive learning environment using the power of sport.

Community sport and well-being programmes

Supporting local projects to overcome issues, be inactivity, social engagement or lack of provision.

School Holiday Sports Camps

Our cost-effective multi sports activity camps offer young people a fun way to get active during the school holidays.

Short Breaks

Giving parents and carers some respite and allowing the children an opportunity to try sporting activities whilst socialising with new friends.

Holiday Activity with Food (HAF) Programme

Supporting the national effort to make sure children stay active, gain nutritional knowledge and have at least one meal a day throughout the school holidays.

Job Opportunities

Check out our current jobs in North East

Casual Multi-Sport Coaches

Teaching & Activity Assistant – Part Time

Get involved

If you are in the public sector or a community organisation, this is the route for you...

Contact us