OXFORD United’s official charity is offering schools that remain open to children of key workers the opportunity to receive free coaching sessions.

Oxford United in the Community’s regular schools’ programme has had to be placed on hold due to the closure of schools and the coronavirus pandemic.

However, this has not stopped the community team who run the sessions regrouping and now offering a free service to all schools across Oxfordshire.

The sessions are designed to support the families of key workers, with the programmes on offer adapted to account for social distancing and are in keeping with current government guidelines.

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Chris Lowes, head of Oxford United in the Community, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has understandably caused great concern for many families that we regularly work with through our community schemes.

“With some schools remaining open to support families of key workers we wanted to find a way to give something back.

“Therefore, we’re offering schools that remain open to children of key workers the chance to host our excellent team of coaches for no cost.”

Spaces however are limited due to resources and the charity said it would do its most to accommodate as many requests as possible.

The offering is also available only while government advice deems it safe to do so.

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The charity has also been helping people through the coronavirus outbreak by setting up a series of online challenges.

Tasks range from challenging young footballers to showcase their best skills with the ball to performing their best goal celebration.

Videos will also practice the key messages of advice from Prime Minister Boris Johnson concerning how to best protect others around you during the Covid-19 crisis, including examples of how to distance yourself socially while remaining active.

Mr Lowes explained: “Our videos are designed to encourage people to keep fit and raise morale during this difficult time.

“We’re encouraging creativity so long as you follow the rules of each challenge and remember to tag us on social media with your attempts.”

Schools that remain open are encouraged to contact Oxford United in the Community to register interest in the coaching sessions, via: community@oufc.co.uk