Founded in 1884 as the Rugby Clubs, The Rugby Portobello Trust (RPT) is P3’s children’s, youth and family support centre based in North Kensington, London. RPT provides vital support for children and young people through a wide range of activities that help build confidence, expand horizons and unlock their full potential.
Its diverse programmes include educational support, art workshops, music sessions, sports coaching, mental health services, mentoring and employment hubs, all designed to equip young people and their families with the skills and opportunities they need for a brighter future.
Kayden first heard about RPT’s reputation for outstanding sports coaching through a friend. Despite living in Hackney, he travels across London every day to take part in RPT’s activities for young people.
“It’s worth the journey”, Kayden says. “Since coming here, my confidence, sports performance and social skills have all improved.”
He describes RPT as a safe, welcoming space for young people from all over London:
“The environment here is nice. I’d recommend RPT to anyone who has the time to come, especially if they’re local. Everyone here looks out for you and makes sure you’re safe.”
Salah has been coming to RPT since he was 14. What started as an interest in basketball soon turned into a sense of belonging and community support.
“The club really grew on me”, Salah says. “I can’t come as much as I’d like now because I’m studying or with family, but I’m always excited to come back, to just be myself.”
For Salah, RPT is much more than a place to play sports. It’s a community hub where young people can discover who they are, find support and focus on what they love, away from life’s pressures: “Whenever I come here, I can let go of my outside problems and put all my energy into basketball. I can release my anger, stress or sadness – making that basket makes my day.”
RPT’s dedicated staff and coaches create a safe, inclusive environment where young people feel supported to learn, grow and thrive. Salah says:
“It’s such an inclusive and welcoming place. Young people can come here to enjoy themselves, learn new skills and feel part of something positive.”
RPT continues to stand as a pillar of support for young people in Kensington and beyond, helping them grow in confidence, build essential life skills and shape better futures for themselves and their families. Funded entirely by donations from the local community, RPT can only continue to deliver vital services through the generosity of others. Support them here.
*Please note we have used a stock image in this article to protect the identity of the young people we support.