New Era Boxing Fighting for wellbeing

New Era Boxing Club are offering free, low impact boxing classes for people currently experiencing mental health issues due to increased alcohol use or addiction.

They are starting their third 12-week course, with numbers growing as the word spreads about the classes and their fun and inclusive atmosphere.

Some attendees have now been at the club for 24 weeks. The classes have given people a sense of purpose and something to look forward to.

‘‘I heard about the sessions from group therapy, I came because I knew it would be good for my mental health. It’s a very nice, friendly place to come. You’re not under pressure, and you can take a break when you need it.’’

They learn new skills, meet people in a similar situation to themselves in an understanding and supportive environment outside of usual clinical settings or group meetings.

‘‘The sessions and coaches have helped me improve my health, self-confidence as well as my communication skills. Since starting the sessions, it has helped me get through a lot.’’

Carrie Ann Stevens, coach at New Era and founder of the project can really see a change in confidence with the attendees as the weeks progress. The sessions are a complimentary part of recovery in the community.

Carrie says, ‘‘Seeing people’s mental health improve from taking part in the sessions is very rewarding, movement is so important for feeling good, and the sessions create a sense of community and belonging.’’

The success of the project is apparent as they enter their 24th week. Participants who have attended during this time have praised the programme, as well as Cheshire IPS,

‘‘Recovery and care plans are very much trying to move away from the medical model and options such as fitness as a part of wellbeing are the way forward.’’

New Era are now looking to expand within the community, working with the local NHS social prescribers, the Westminster Drug Project and the IPC to offer more fitness based activities for community groups that may never walk into a commercial gym due to the nature of their condition.

If you would like to find out more about the club and its projects, you can follow on social media www.neweraboxing.co.uk @new_era_boxing @mindbodybalanceacademy