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A boxing gym near York has teamed up with a youth homelessness charity to help vulnerable young people.
Legions Gym Boxing Club, based in Dunnington, is working with Safe and Sound Homes (SASH) to support young people who have been affected by homelessness, family breakdown, or trauma.
The club is offering free training opportunities for young people facing adversity, using boxing and structured fitness sessions to promote physical health, emotional wellbeing and self-confidence.
The programme is led by Legions Gym owner and director Al Chambers whose approach combines physical training with emotional support, helping participants develop routine, discipline and resilience in a safe and supportive environment.
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Al said: "At Legions Gym Boxing Club, we proudly work alongside SASH because we believe boxing can be a powerful tool for personal growth.
"The discipline, routine and sense of achievement found in our gym help people develop confidence, improve wellbeing and build resilience.
"More than just a sport, boxing provides a supportive environment where people can connect with others, feel part of a positive community and discover their strengths, regardless of the challenges they have faced."
The sessions aim to promote physical health, emotional wellbeing and self-confidence, guided by Mr Chambers' experience as a therapeutic counsellor and trauma-informed coach.
His approach combines physical training with emotional support to help young people build routine, discipline, and coping skills in a safe and structured environment.
One participant, Henry, said the programme had given him direction during a difficult period.
He said: "SASH supported me through one of the toughest periods of my life.
"Being involved with Legions Gym has given me structure, confidence and a positive outlet for my mental health.
"It’s helped me realise what I’m capable of and given me hope for the future."
The gym also offers Boxing Therapy sessions, which blend physical training with therapeutic dialogue to help individuals process emotions while improving overall wellbeing.
Al also provides professional counselling as a BACP-registered therapist, supporting those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, and low self-esteem through a range of accessible formats.
He believes that combining early intervention with boxing and therapeutic support can prevent challenges from escalating into crises.
Al said: "When boxing is combined with therapeutic support, it becomes a powerful tool for change.
"It helps people work through challenges while building strength in both body and mind."
The partnership with SASH supports a broader goal to improve outcomes for young people in York by offering consistent, positive opportunities for growth and personal development.
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