‘Moves Different’ Reaches Landmark 500 Referrals
June 18, 2026 | by Nabillah Akhtar
A total of 500 young people have now benefited from England Boxing and Welsh Boxing’s ‘Moves Different’ programme, which is a significant milestone for the campaign.
The pioneering initiative uses boxing and exercise to support young people referred to the programme, providing opportunities for those who may be at risk of getting involved in crime, anti-social behaviour, or who are struggling at school.
Delivered through England Boxing & Welsh Boxing’s boxing clubs and gyms nationwide, it gives young people access to physical sessions along with trusted mentors and positive role models. The campaign aims to help participants increase in confidence, build resilience and develop discipline.
Reaching 500 young people shows the growing impact of the programme and the trust that schools, youth services, local authorities and community organisations have in the work being delivered.
Sasha Cocks, ‘Moves Different’ Session Coach at Splott Adventure ABC said: “It’s been 12 weeks since we started the programme and so far we have had a great response from the individuals that have been referred to us. We’ve noticed many changes amongst the group already including increased confidence and skill levels. Myself and Darren are looking forward to welcoming more individuals to a great club Splott adventure ABC. Something about this just moves different.”
The impact of the programme can also be seen through the experiences of the young people taking part.
One participant from Splott Adventure ABC, who has attended the programme regularly (twice a week for three months), said: “I’m enjoying my boxing sessions because they help me feel more confident and active. I think my fitness and discipline have improved since I started.”
Another participant from Priory Park Boxing Club added: “It calms me down if I’m having a bad day and stops me from doing stuff I shouldn’t be doing. I like that I’m learning new things every day and that it’s keeping me busy.”
A third participant highlighted the positive atmosphere within Pat Benson’s Boxing Academy, saying: “I started with no experience – the coaches have helped me to get better along the way and I’ll be sparring soon. The best thing about taking part is also getting to make new friends whilst learning skills along the way. The club will be hosting a fun day soon and I want to hopefully showcase my skills that I’ve developed and attend.”
A Gym participant also involved in the campaign said: “It’s an amazing gym experience and it offers a lot of facilities that other gyms don’t offer and it’s a great opportunity that someone my age is not usually able to have for free.”
Project Manager, Louise Vidor commented, “Reaching 500 referrals is a significant milestone and reflects the hard work of our ‘Moves Different’ team across the delivery areas. They have built strong relationships with a wide range of referral partners, including education settings, youth justice services and local charities, helping to create clear referral pathways that reach young people in their own communities.
It is fantastic to see so many young people being connected with the programme, and even better to see some of them now regularly attending England Boxing and Welsh Boxing clubs.”
