Boxing club aiming to tackle homelessness and mental health prepares to open in York
By Community Correspondent
A new boxing and wellbeing centre designed to support people experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance use issues is preparing to open in York later this year.
The New Ways Wellbeing Centre in New Earswick is being developed by The Salvation Army and will combine boxing and fitness sessions with wider wellbeing support, access to services and activities for young people.
York Central MP Rachael Maskell recently visited the centre to see the progress being made and take part in a taster session led by The Salvation Army’s Early Intervention and Prevention Lead, Charlie Malarkey.
The session included high-intensity circuits and work with a punch bag outside the centre.
Ms Maskell praised the inclusive approach, saying people could take part regardless of their fitness level or ability.
“At the session I attended there were children and adults, some super fit people and others who were having a go for the first time,” she said.
“Everyone got so much out of the session, while also picking up a few boxing skills at the same time.”
She said the sessions were about more than fitness, with boxing being used to help people meet others, build confidence and address issues including substance use.
Ms Maskell also called on organisations across York to work with The Salvation Army when the centre opens.
The New Ways centre will not be solely focused on boxing. It will operate as an all-round wellbeing centre, offering support and signposting to other services to help people improve their physical and mental wellbeing.
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Mr Malarkey said the visit had given Ms Maskell a chance to meet some of the people already involved with the project and experience the type of classes planned for the centre.
A team including former professional boxer Jamie Warters will run classes, alongside people with lived experience of homelessness and substance use.
Mr Malarkey said that experience would help the team support others facing similar challenges.
“We’re creating not only a safe and non-intimidating environment for people to exercise, but also a community that people can feel part of,” he said.
The centre will also provide a space for young people who may be struggling to find positive activities, with the aim of helping them develop skills and confidence.
Major Andrew Vertigan, who leads The Salvation Army’s city-wide strategy in York, said the project was an example of community partnership and would make a difference to local people.
The centre is expected to open before the end of the year.
Its development has been supported by donations of time and money from the local community, including ADS Scaffolding, Simon Baynes Wholesale Fruit and Vegetables, Pavers, York Rotary Club, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire’s Community Buildings Programme and The Salvation Army.
For more information about the gym, email charlie.malarkey@salvationarmy.org.uk.
