Smile Connect is a great local charity which supports lone parent families in one of the most deprived areas in Poole. This project helps increase self-confidence in young people and it provides them with positive role models – a great example of how local communities can support each other. Kay Seabright, the mum of one of the young mentees explained:

Charlie loved the mentoring fishing trips funded by Sports Relief Community Cash Fund managed by the Foundation. I am a single parent and having a male role model in Charlie’s life is quite important for him particularly at his age. The fishing trip was great fun as the participants went around Old Harry Rocks and  found themselves in a mini storm – they ended up catching  a lot of stingrays. Charlie is looking forward to taking part in more fishing trips this summer.

The great initiative attracted the attention of BBC South Today – they  produced a feature about the project in March featuring Kate McGregor, member of the British Sailing Team.