This week’s Friday Feature highlights Rise Above Barriers (RAB), a Birmingham-based organisation using sport to create safe, supportive environments for young people.
Through its Box Fit programme at Mannings Gym, RAB works with young people who may be at risk of exclusion or facing challenges in their lives. The sessions use boxing as a positive outlet, helping young people build confidence, discipline, resilience and respect.
With support from the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation, the programme offers free, accessible sessions, removing barriers to participation and creating opportunities for young people to benefit from structure, mentoring and positive role models.
The impact is clear, not only in fitness and boxing skills, but in how young people show up at home, in school and in their community. Parents describe the gym as a safe space where their children feel supported, focused and part of something positive.
One parent shared:
“It’s a safe space for him, keeping him focused and out of trouble.”
At the Kerslake Robshaw Foundation, we’re proud to support organisations like Rise Above Barriers that use sport to help young people build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.
