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Boxing Beats Crime: Teens Transform Attitudes
31 Mar
Summary
- Free boxing sessions for teens show remarkable attitude changes.
- Over 40 children attend, with 30 referred by police.
- Anti-social behaviour incidents reduced by 10% in Heanor.
The Lions Den Boxing Club in Heanor, Derbyshire, is empowering teenagers through free boxing sessions, leading to profound changes in their attitudes and behavior. Sam Goodrum, the club's coach, offers these sessions to under-18s, noting a dramatic shift from misery to engagement among participants.
Since August 2025, police community support officer James Colledge has referred young people, some involved in knife crime, to the club as part of the Breakaway Project. Of the 33 referred youths, 89% have not reoffended. This program has demonstrably reduced anti-social behavior in Heanor by 10% compared to the previous year.
Participants like 15-year-old Noah and Cage report increased discipline, reduced anger, and improved mental health, attributing their positive changes to the club's structured environment. The club emphasizes discipline and conflict avoidance, teaching participants to walk away from trouble.
Supported by Derbyshire Police and Amber Valley Borough Council, Goodrum aims to expand the club's reach, further reduce local crime, and provide a positive outlet for more young people.
