A COMMUNITY boxing club has been hailed a success following a dramatic reduction in anti-social behaviour in Westy.
LiveWire set-up Westy Community Boxing Club with partners including the council, PCSOs, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Warrington Wolves Foundation in October 2015.
Its aim was to encourage young people to steer clear of trouble following a spate of fire related anti-social behaviour incidents in the area.
Since its introduction into the community, a number of individuals that had been causing problems have taken part in the boxing sessions and in the months since the club launched, the fire service has seen a 65% reduction in the number of ASB call outs they were receiving in the area.
Paul Flannery, neighbourhood engagement officer at LiveWire, said: “It’s fantastic to see that Westy Boxing Club has had such a positive impact on the community.
“There has been a high interest in the club since it was launched back in October and the sessions have enabled young people who had become disillusioned with the lack of activities in their area to engage with their community again.”
The club, which is based at Westy Community Centre on Bridgewater Avenue, provides a base for young people to exercise, learn new skills and socialise. The club’s adopted motto is respect and discipline and sessions are used to instil the importance of these values not only in boxing, but in everyday life.
A steering group has also been established to give local residents and professionals the opportunity to ensure the club is responsive to local needs. The club has also facilitated a boxing leader’s course, which saw local volunteers qualify as assistant coaches.
The future of Westy Boxing Club looks bright with Cheshire Fire and Rescue pledging £3000 worth of funding to purchase new equipment and to help with venue and staffing costs.
