Boxing project's 'positive impact' on young people

From left, In Your Corner boxing coach India Wilkinson, Goole Youth Action youth worker Debbie Fletcher and councillor Victoria Aitken

A boxing project has been praised for having a "powerful impact" on young people.

In Your Corner, run by Goole Youth Action, works with those aged 11 and over who are struggling with school, relationships, or confidence or could possibly turn to antisocial behaviour in the future.

The project teaches boxing basics as well as life skills such as nutrition, fitness and cooking.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's cabinet member for children, families and education, said projects like this can "really help a young person and provide that early intervention that changes their life course".

Aitken, who visited the project to see for herself the impact it was having, spoke to one young person who had been out of education for two years.

"After completing the programme, the young person is now back at school, in full time education – demonstrating what a powerful impact the course has had," she said.

A youth support worker is also on hand to help each young person get the most out of the programme.

Referrals are made via the council's youth offending team, safer communities and young people's support and safeguarding services.

All the young people taking part join the programme voluntarily.

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