Free bus travel has been provided for 60 young people attending boxing sessions at Pat Benson Boxing Club in Digbeth, as part of the My Tomorrow campaign.
The boxing club runs a twelve-week Youth Crime Prevention programme, which aims to support young people and guide them away from a life of violence.
They offer free boxing sessions and studio access to young people excluded from school, or who are at risk of becoming involved in youth violence, anti-social behaviour or gangs.
Coaches will act as mentors to help foster a safe space for the young people and build a stronger sense of community and belonging amongst the group.
The young people can be referred by the police, the Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), schools, parents or self-refer. The club also runs drop-in sessions.
The bus passes have been funded by the West Midlands Violence Reduction partnership as part of the My Tomorrow movement; a youth led campaign focused on amplifying young voices and empowering young people to be at the forefront of decision making.
Simon Foster, Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands said: “Providing free travel to young people engaged in this programme, is more than just funding a journey—it’s a pathway to opportunity.
“By removing barriers to participation, we empower young people to step into spaces that embody values such as discipline, respect, and resilience.
“This initiative not only helps guide young people away from violence, but also reinforces our commitment to building brighter futures and ensuring safer communities.”
Marcus from the boxing club said: “We believe that as an organisation we have created pathways that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and build brighter, safer futures for the young people we work with.”
Editors Notes
What is My Tomorrow?
My Tomorrow is the youth-led campaign for the West Midlands, which aims to:
- Empower young people so they can affect policies, particularly around safety and youth voice
- Encourage the public to rethink negative stereotypes about young people
- Support partners in creating and managing opportunities for youth engagement
- Inspire greater collaboration and creativity to improve the life chances of young people in our region
It has been designed by young people working with the charity the Positive Youth Foundation and it is funded by the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership.
