BoxSmart ‘On the Ropes’

AEF works with specialist Community Sports providers to offer a 12-week provision that aims to engage with young people who are inactive, to increase their access to sports and physical activities, and inspire them to learn a new skill.

The project takes a multi-agency approach to engage and support young people (via referral process) to address and reduce anti-social behaviour (ASB) and community disruption seen within key areas of Essex and Thurrock, as identified by local police teams, VVU data, Youth Services (YS) and other agencies. The course content also covers the risks of exploitation (CSE/CCE) which can lead onto youth criminality, serious violence and crime.

Each course is designed to have a blend of sports and physical activities, alongside mentoring and life skills sessions, and opportunities for attendees to gain sports related qualifications and awards with the possibility of becoming youth volunteer leaders.

BoxSmart ‘On the Ropes’ also has a secondary aim of addressing inequalities and removing barriers experienced by some young people, especially prevalent in areas of multiple deprivation, factors that can lead to greater exposure to exploitation and youth criminality.

Each course provides the opportunity for young people to access local youth provisions and sporting facilities, along with support and guidance in a safe environment from trusted adults.

Our vision is that everyone, no matter what their personal or socioeconomic background, has the opportunity to engage in physical activities in order to reach their full potential and seek the support they need.

We are now an ASDAN accredited centre and able to offer entry level accreditation to young people who complete one of our three bespoke courses. So far, 80+ ASDAN certificates have been awarded and the courses are proving very popular with young people. Read more here.

“It’s my passion, I enjoy it. It’s got a good mental side too. I’ve never been fitter in my life. It’s given me confidence.

My mum loves it as well – she doesn’t have to worry about my anymore.”

— George, BoxSmart participant