When families attending ARCH activities in Redditch spoke to staff about the challenges facing local children and young people, they highlighted a need for more positive, structured activities that would build confidence, improve wellbeing and provide opportunities to develop new skills. Parents wanted activities that would appeal to young people who were not always engaged by traditional sports, while creating a safe and supportive environment where they could feel included, make friends and develop self-belief.
With support from Worcestershire County Council Public Health’s Community Wellbeing Grant, ARCH was able to introduce boxing as part of its wider offer for children and young people. The funding helped remove barriers to participation by providing access to experienced coaches and equipment, allowing local young people to experience a sport that may otherwise have been out of reach. The sessions were led by professional boxer Ameen Khan, supported by amateur boxer Sami Khan, Sami Khan, alongside ARCH coaches and volunteers, creating an accessible and welcoming introduction to boxing for local families.
The impact was felt by participants and parents. Families spoke positively about the welcoming approach of coaches, the quality of the sessions and the confidence they saw developing in their children.
Parents described young people becoming more active, spending less time on screens and growing in confidence through regular sessions. Others highlighted the inclusive environment, particularly for children who were initially nervous and needed extra support. One parent said that their child had become “so much more outgoing”, while another described seeing a significant increase in confidence and self-belief through taking part.
Importantly, the grant did more than fund a series of sessions. It helped ARCH establish boxing within its broader programme of activities, creating a new route through which young people can be physically activity, connect, and develop their skills.
Participants were provided with their own equipment to continue practising at home, while links with experienced coaches and local clubs have created additional clear pathways for those wanting more. Some participants have already progressed into established boxing and mixed martial arts clubs.
By responding to what local families asked for, ARCH has strengthened its offer and created lasting opportunities for children to stay active, build confidence and remain connected to positive activities in their community.
The Community Wellbeing Grant helped unlock that opportunity, but the benefits continue through the relationships, skills, equipment and pathways that remain in place for future participants.
If you have an idea that could improve health and wellbeing in your community, find out more about Worcestershire County Council’s Community Wellbeing Grant at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants.