Tempus Community Projects (TCP) Teesside was founded on a powerful belief: that every community deserves the chance to thrive. With the support of two local mayors, we began building something special - an initiative designed to uplift disadvantaged neighbourhoods through sports, mentorship, and meaningful local engagement.

We secured premises. We rallied high-profile sports mentors. We built momentum. The community backed us with passion - over 250 local residents from the regions most deprived area have already voiced their support. But the one thing we were promised - the funding to make it happen - has not arrived.

Despite repeated attempts to engage the local authority and invitations to see firsthand the life-changing potential of our project, we have been met with silence. This is not due to a lack of funds. While TCP remains unfunded, millions have been allocated elsewhere: £1 billion for cycle lanes in Middlesbrough and £450,000 for part-time organisations open just two hours a week.

Teesside deserves better.

Our project will reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, and offer young people a real sporting chance at a better life. The need is urgent. The building is ready. The mentors are waiting. So is an entire community.

We call on the local authority to honour its commitment and release the funding promised to Tempus Community Projects. Teesside is ready - let’s open the doors.

Sign the petition. Raise your voice. Help us give Teesside the future it deserves.