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NHS Opens Boxing Gym for Mental Health
22 Nov, 2025
Summary
- NHS facility in south-east London offers therapeutic non-contact boxing.
- The gym supports individuals with mental health issues and neurological conditions.
- Partnership between NHS and Off The Ropes charity launched the gym.
In a pioneering move for mental healthcare, the NHS has established a dedicated boxing gym in south-east London. This specialized facility, situated at the Goldie Leigh site in Abbey Wood, Bexley, focuses on the therapeutic, non-contact aspects of boxing to support mental wellbeing.
The gym is designed to assist individuals accessing NHS mental health services, alongside those living with learning disabilities, Parkinson's, dementia, and other neurological conditions. This innovative approach aims to provide a unique avenue for recovery and support.
This initiative is the result of a decade-long collaboration between Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust and the mental health charity Off The Ropes. The charity was co-founded by Warren Dunkley, a former professional boxer and an experienced NHS occupational therapist, bringing a wealth of expertise to the project.
