Oakland Foundation trustee and grant application co‑ordinator Mark Williams visited Woodrush School in Wythall to see InUnity’s new ‘Split the Pack’ programme in action, an initiative the Foundation proudly funds.
The project aims to provide boys and young men with a safe space to talk openly about masculinity, mental health, peer pressure, personal safety, and healthy relationships. Mark joined the group for part of the session, even taking part in touch boxing, a high‑energy activity designed to help the boys let off steam in a positive way.
Mark Williams praised the project, stating: “Split the Pack gets boys talking about things that really matter but are often left unsaid. Their honesty and willingness to reflect on what masculinity means today was inspiring to see.”
InUnity, is a small charity based in south Birmingham and works with young people across Birmingham and Worcestershire. Their programmes blend sport, physical activity, creativity, youth development, and social action to support communities facing disadvantage. Known for their work empowering vulnerable girls and young women through initiatives such as SheWILL, the charity has expanded its work with boys in response to growing concerns around harmful online influencers and negative forms of masculinity.
Mark added: “InUnity’s ability to mix meaningful discussion with practical activity is incredibly effective. The Oakland Foundation is proud to support work that builds confidence, resilience, and stronger relationships for young people.”
InUnity Operations Manager Amanda Clarke commented: “Thanks to the Oakland Foundation, we’ve been able to take our programmes beyond Birmingham into Worcestershire. Sessions like ‘Split the Pack’ and ‘She WILL’ give young people a safe space to ask questions, have honest conversations, and get support from adults they can trust. At a time when young people often turn to online sources for answers, these spaces are more important than ever.”
As part of its commitment to supporting under‑16s through education, health, nutrition, and sport, the Oakland Foundation continues to champion organisations like InUnity that help every child realise their potential.
Added Mark: “The passion and care InUnity brings to their work is exceptional. Programmes like Split the Pack and SheWILL genuinely change lives.”
