Labour Champions Youth Opportunities with New E‑Sports Club - In partnership with BBC Children in Need

Labour-run Merton Council recently launched E-Sports Youth Club sessions at Pollards Hill Library, delivered in partnership with E-Sports and funded by BBC Children in Need. This funding, which has been secured for the next three years, represents a significant investment in opportunities for young people across Merton.  

E-Sports is a competitive video gaming community that is a rapidly growing global phenomenon. By bringing it into the heart of our community, Labour-run Merton Council are ensuring that young people can access the very latest in consoles, gaming PCs and video game releases. And thanks to the funding secured, all of this is free of charge.  so young people can enjoy a safe, inclusive environment to connect, play and compete. 

As a borough committed to sport, we recognise that participation takes many forms. By embracing digital sport alongside traditional activities, we are broadening the pathways for young people to develop skills, confidence, and community connections. 

At the opening, Cllr Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, Cabinet Member for Sports & Heritage was joined by Cllr Usaama Kaweesa, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Mayor Martin Whelton, and Labour Action Team member Ryan Rodrigues. It was fantastic to see so many young people fully engaged and enthusiastic about the games. This is just another way that Merton Labour are delivering new and exciting opportunities for young people across the borough. 

During the launch, Cllr Cooper-Marbiah said: 

“I am pleased that Pollards Hill library has been selected by E-Sports to host these youth club sessions. Delivering them within the library creates an important opportunity to engage young people who may not otherwise use this space, encouraging them to discover and benefit from our wider services. In speaking with the young people, it was clear they greatly value this new offer and are enthusiastic about the opportunities it brings.” 

This initiative has been made possible through funding from BBC Children in Need, the charity dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. The support from BBC Children in Need ensures that children and young people in Pollards Hill can benefit from this innovative programme, no matter their background.  

This project is about more than just gaming, it is about equity, access, and community. By embedding youth focused initiatives in local spaces like libraries, we are not only investing in new opportunities for young people, but also ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive.