Police officers are linking arms with young football enthusiasts in Milton Keynes to reduce anti-social behaviour and enhance life experiences, thanks to a free weekly programme.
Funded by the Premier League Foundation, Premier League Kicks is a national initiative where boys and girls aged 8-18 can access free football training sessions, plus mentoring, personal development, education and volunteering opportunities.
In Milton Keynes it is delivered by MK Dons Community Trust – the football club’s official charity – whose team has engaged 273 individual participants since September alone.
The Trust’s flagship session on Friday nights at Lord Grey Academy is open to participants of all abilities aged 11 or older. Plans to deliver more sessions across the city in different neighbourhoods are in progress.
The Trust has now teamed up with Thames Valley Police so players can build positive relationships with local officers who help them feel safe and supported. Workshops delivered by Bletchley’s local neighbourhood team include discussions on street safety and educational pieces on stop and search routines.
Tom Evans from Thames Valley Police said: “Football really helps to break down those barriers young people might associate with the police.
“Premier League Kicks without doubt builds trust and confidence between players and our officers.
“We’ve had incidents where Kicks participants have bumped into our team while on patrol, and they’ve had the confidence to come over and have a general chat which is a huge positive.
“Ultimately, our partnership with MK Dons Community Trust is helping young people feel safe by educating them about where to turn to should they ever require our support. It’s a genuine highlight of our week, even if participants don’t hold back on their tackles when we join in with a game!”
Among the 273 young people to engage with Premier League Kicks in Milton Keynes since September are 54 girls, 15 individuals with special educational needs and disabilities and 120 who are aged 14 or older.
“Premier League Kicks means I have time every week to play football in an organised environment where I can improve my playing style and make new friends," said programme regular, Boyd Mullin, “It’s 10/10, every time.”
Mixed gender sessions are delivered by the Trust’s team of experienced and qualified FA coaches and all playing abilities are welcome, the only requirement being to wear moulded boots and shin pads.
For further information and to sign-up to a free Premier League Kicks session in Milton Keynes, email information@
Community centres interested in learning more about hosting Premier League Kicks in 2026 in partnership with MK Dons Community Trust can contact the same addresses.
