Free sports sessions were held over the half term break in Sandwell to help keep young people off the streets and away from violence.
More than £6,000 has been pushed into providing fun activities like boxing, tennis and football as well as first aid training to equip young people with essential life skills to keep themselves and others safe.
The children were also given a healthy packed lunch and benefitted from speaking to coaches who act as mentors providing support, guidance and a sense of belonging.
The activities have been funded by the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership and were run by BoxClever Mentoring and Wodensborough Boxing Club.
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “The holidays can often be a very lonely time for young people without school, and some children are even unsure of when they’ll get their next meal.
“It is incredibly important that they have other safe spaces to come to, to socialise, enjoy nutritious food and have trusted adults that can support them through issues they are facing.”
Sienna, a young participant aged 14 said: “It’s really helping me advance my boxing skills while having fun, learning and meeting new people.
“It’s getting me out of my house and giving me something active to do, instead of just sitting at home on my phone scrolling on TikTok.”
Craig Jones, Founder of BoxClever said: “We’re grateful to have been trusted to deliver this Half-Term provision, something that is so important in helping to keep young people engaged in meaningful activities that are delivered by positive role models during non-term time”.
