South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit and Police and Crime Commissioner visit Sheffield City Boxing Club

The South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) and Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) have visited Sheffield City Boxing Club to see the Punch Through It project.

The Gym works with local schools on the initiative, which has been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Through boxing training, Punch Through It aims to help young people raise their self-esteem and learn new skills. The project also aims to educate young people on the benefits of being fit and healthy.

During their visit, the VRU and PCC saw a Punch Through It session with Acres Hill Primary School.

Graham Jones, Head of the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit said: “Sport plays an important role in bringing communities together, supporting young people in developing new skills and helping them to learn about the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.

“As the Violence Reduction Unit, this is something that we are always keen to build on and support, and I enjoyed visiting Sheffield City Boxing Club to see the work that they are carrying out with local schools.”

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Sport gives young people good adult role models, teaching self-control and discipline, and helping them to gain confidence and learn to respect others.

“It was a pleasure to visit Sheffield City Boxing Club to see the Punch Through It programme in action, after I supported the initiative with grant funding.

“As someone who was once an amateur boxer, it was good to see the skills on display, and to chat to the young people about the sessions they have taken part in and what they have learnt.”