THE importance of grassroots sport for young people has been highlighted by two community-minded opticians stores.

With many local sports clubs struggling for funding, Specsavers Bexleyheath and Specsavers Erith have continued their support of Bexley Tigers Basketball Club by renewing a sponsorship package to ensure that as many young people as possible have a chance to take up the sport.

This comes a year after the locally owned and run stores sponsored the club’s Hardship Fund, which ensures inclusivity for young people interested in playing basketball.

The 2026 sponsorship package, which includes funding, helps break down financial barriers for families across the community and includes the costs of club training sessions. During the past 12 months, the funding has made a difference to 10 players and their families who otherwise might not have been able to take up the sport and join a club.

Wouter De Wit, retail director at Specsavers Bexleyheath and Specsavers Erith, says: ‘We’re so delighted that our sponsorship over the last year has helped over 10 youngsters gain access to the game, we decided to renew it for 2026.

‘Basketball is a team sport, so there are many benefits, including mixing with like-minded young players, playing as a team, especially in the different leagues, the mental health and fitness aspect of sport which fosters higher self-esteem, plus building confidence, combined with that sense of belonging to a club.’

Bexley Tigers, a recognised Children’s University Learning Destination, continues to build positive pathways for local youth through sport, leadership and mentorship. The club’s ethos aligns strongly with Specsavers’ focus on early intervention in children’s vision and hearing, which are both vital to success in sport and beyond.

Nina Rickman, Head of Operations at Bexley Tigers Basketball Club, says: ‘We extend our sincere thanks to Specsavers Bexleyheath and Specsavers Erith for their generous support and shared belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive.

‘For us, basketball is more than just a game – it’s a lifeline, offering children a chance to build confidence, stay active and develop lifelong skills in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we are taking another step toward making basketball in Bexley accessible to all.’

The Specsavers stores also offer a wide range of services for young people, including NHS-funded eye tests and glasses, free UV protection on all children’s eyewear, prescription sports glasses, and myopia control lenses to help prevent short-sightedness in children aged six to sixteen years old.

To book in for a sight or hearing check, you can contact Specsavers Bexleyheath on 020 8298 9920. Alternatively, you can book online at https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/bexleyheath

To book into Specsavers Erith for a sight or hearing check, you can contact the store on 01322 358900 or you can book online at https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/erith