The idea
Our project focuses on acquiring essential boxing equipment (gloves, headguards) to fit out a much larger mill space and replace our tired, overworked gear. This expansion is crucial for enhancing Jennings Community Boxing Academy's inclusive programmes. It enables young people (aged 8+)—especially those from deprived areas, individuals with disabilities, and those facing mental health challenges—to participate safely. Currently, the high cost of mandatory kit presents a substantial financial barrier, exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis. By securing funding, we will provide high-quality gear, resolving our bottleneck and increasing capacity four-fold. This unlocks a comprehensive new timetable: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 5:15pm and 6:15pm; Thursdays at 5:15pm; and Saturday mornings at 10am and 11am. Ultimately, this investment improves session quality, builds vital life skills, and empowers 60 new children every single week.
What we'll deliver
- Increased capacity in youth and community sessions, demonstrated by higher attendance figures
- Safer training environment for all participants due to the use of new, compliant equipment.
- Enhanced professional training pathway for aspiring young boxers, through access to England Boxing mandated equipment.
Why it's a great idea
Our project will bring transformative benefits by directly enhancing Jennings Gym's inclusive boxing programmes. By acquiring essential, compliant equipment, we will eliminate significant financial barriers for young people from deprived areas, ensuring sport is truly accessible to all. This investment will immediately increase our capacity, allowing us to accommodate more participants whom we currently have to turn away - up to 60 more young people. Crucially, improved safety will be paramount, offering a secure environment for everyone, including those facing disabilities and mental health challenges. Participants will experience profound physical and mental health benefits through regular activity, fostering improved self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork. For aspiring boxers, this funding provides the vital equipment needed to progress competitively, opening pathways they otherwise couldn't pursue. Ultimately, the project will reduce social exclusion within our community.
Steps to get it done
- Milestone 1: Funding secured; essential equipment ordered from supplier within 2 weeks.
- Milestone 2: New equipment delivered to gym and inventoried within 6 weeks of order.
- Milestone 3: Equipment fully integrated into all sessions; ready for use by participants within 1 week of delivery.
- Milestone 4: Initial impact monitored; participant and coach feedback gathered over first 3 months of use.
