At the start of planning for the Gotland Games we identified that the cost of attending would be about double that of attending the previous games in Jersey. There was a fear that this would mean that some talented sports people would miss the opportunity to have their games moment not because they lacked skill or talent but because they lacked the funds. This might be through still being at school or still in education or training and those who live in poverty but find a release and social integration through dedication to their sports.

We therefore started the Gotland Support Fund and made bids to several charitable funds on the Island. After receiving a number of donations to the fund totalling just over £3,000 for which we were extremely grateful we have now received a massive boost in the form of a £10,000 grant from the IW Foundation.

The Isle of Wight Foundation has been jointly funded by Ringway Island Roads, Meridiam, VINCI UK Foundation and VINCI Concessions who together make up the partnership behind Island Roads.

The fund is primarily aimed at members of TeamIOW who are under 25 to help them with the cost of attending the games and to show them reward for their commitment and dedication to sport on the Island. Older competitors may also apply if they are able to show financial hardship.

Applicants should show they have qualified to take part in the games through their skill or achieving the necessary standard and are expected to have undertaken some personal fundraising or an activity to promote the games and their participation in them

Application forms have been sent to the Sports Team Managers and any competitor who wishes to apply for financial support in attending the games should contact their team manager. All applications will be treated in confidence.

Click here for more details of the Isle of Wight Foundation.