Brighton Club Wins Award for Inclusive Support

A Brighton-based martial arts club, Nam Yang, has been celebrated with a Parent Carers' Council award for excellence in the charity and voluntary sector. The club is recognized for its deeply inclusive environment, where students are encouraged to "kick and punch with love and respect." This ethos has fostered a strong sense of community and belonging for its diverse membership.

Nam Yang actively integrates people with disabilities, refugees, asylum seekers, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals from low-income households. The club’s commitment to inclusion, with mixed-ability and mixed-background training sessions, promotes greater acceptance and understanding among participants. This approach was highlighted by a parent whose son’s confidence grew significantly through their engagement.

Previously, Nam Yang achieved national recognition as the UK's first martial arts "Club of Sanctuary" for its dedicated support of refugees and asylum seekers. The club also collaborates with local charities, including a scheme that provides meals and entertainment for adults with learning disabilities, further demonstrating its commitment to community welfare and ensuring "nobody should be left behind."