Nottingham-based charity Switch Up CIC has cut the red ribbon at the Mansfield School of Boxing, a brand new community hub on Barringer Road.
It is hoped the school that will empower vulnerable young people at risk from entering a life of crime or in need of employability support.
The former River Maun Recreation Centre is now managed by Switch Up after an official hand-over from Mansfield District Council in February with the facility becoming a safe space for local people to learn and develop new skills.
This includes giving the community access to the health and behavioural benefits of boxing through a dedicated gym, complete with ring, that has been created in the main hall.
Switch Up - which is part of the Marcellus Baz Group – has been actively supporting Nottingham’s deprived communities for decades, providing mental health and employment support to help young people get into work. Boxing classes are provided through Nottingham School of Boxing, and now in Mansfield, to build personal skills including discipline and determination.
Marcellus Baz BEM, founder and chief executive of Switch Up CIC and Mansfield School of Boxing, said: “Our whole team is honoured that Mansfield District Council has entrusted us with creating this vibrant community hub.
"We have been supporting individuals and families in Mansfield for a few years now and this permanent base means that we can support them so much more, particularly young people at risk of committing crime and anti-social behaviour.”
Andy Abrahams, Executive Mayor of Mansfield, said: “We are delighted that Switch Up has set up a hub in Mansfield, what a great use of the community facility and a programme that will raise aspirations for many young people in Mansfield.
"What Marcellus and his team does is overwhelmingly successful. They have their finger on the pulse and young people respond so well to them. I can’t wait to see the impact it will have in Ravensdale and the wider area.”
Switch Up has a host of well-known supporters with patrons including sporting legends boxer Frank Bruno, ice dancers Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, and WBA featherweight world champion Leigh Wood.
The event was also marked by an appearance by actor Vicky McClure and her partner, TV producer Jonny Owen, who were revealed as the latest high-profile names to become patrons and formally announce their support of the charity and its life-saving work.
For more information on Nottingham School of Boxing and Switch Up visit its website (link opens in new window).