Breaking Boundaries is a three-year programme (2018 –2021) funded by Spirit of 2012, supported by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and The Institute of Community Cohesion (Icoco).

We sat down with Rob Tipping from our Manchester based Community Partner organisation - Lancashire Cricket Foundation, to talk all things Breaking Boundaries!

1. How did you get involved in Breaking Boundaries and what attracted you?  

The Lancashire Cricket Foundation support the delivery of the cricket themed projects within the Manchester area and so we got involved with Breaking Boundaries as cricket is at the heart of their project.

We were really attracted to the element of social bonding of different communities through the use of cricket as a tool to connect people!  

2. How do you support the project, what is your role?  

The Lancashire Cricket Foundation advise community groups and assist in developing innovative ideas to promote social cohesion through the power of cricket.

The work of the Breaking Boundaries can supplement our other programmes in the City, which fall under my remit for the growth of Urban cricket. 

3. What would you say has been the most valuable impact or learning you have seen as a result of Breaking Boundaries? 

Community groups, especially those of differing faiths, have worked together to support each other through the programme and I found that really impactful to see happening in real-time.  

4. What do you feel Moss Side and Whalley Range need more of to help people from different backgrounds mix together and create a sense of belonging?  

The programme in this particular area is in its infancy and has had some changes in recent times. The group needs stability, support, and opportunity. 

5. How does Breaking Boundaries play a role in that?  

Breaking Boundaries offers the opportunity for young people from the area to be empowered and lead on projects to benefit their club/place of worship/group and increase cohesion and interactions between these groups. 

6. What has been your most inspirational moment in Breaking Boundaries? 

The most inspiring moment came in June 2019, when then ambassador and LCF programme lead Bobby Denning helped to organise a Pakistan v India match at Alexandra Park during the weekend of the Pakistan v India Cricket World Cup fixture at Emirates Old Trafford. 

7. How is your organisation staying connected to your local community during lockdown? 

Lockdown has been a challenging time, and we have tried to engage with our communities via interactive social media content, video calls, and relaying appropriate information in a timely manner.