Moves Different: Harnessing Boxing to Prevent Youth Crime

England Boxing are proud to announce the launch of Moves Different, a pioneering programme in partnership with Welsh Boxing that hopes to use the power of boxing to prevent young people from becoming involved in crime, violence, or antisocial behaviour.

Backed by the Youth Endowment Fund, this two-year initiative will provide safe, structured opportunities for young people aged 14–18 who are at risk of offending, with the aim of transforming lives and strengthening communities.

In line with our funding criteria, eligible participants will be randomly offered one of two activities:

• Boxing: Participants are enrolled on the boxing programme, where they receive access to two group boxing sessions per week for six months at one of our participating clubs
• Gym: Participants are given a free gym membership.

Boxing has long been recognised for its unique ability to engage young people who may not connect with traditional sports or education. Its discipline, structure, and focus on respect provide a positive outlet for energy and emotion, while offering role models who can guide participants toward positive choices.

By combining grassroots delivery with robust independent evaluation from the Ending Youth Violence Lab, Moves Different aims to provide valuable insight into the impact of boxing in tackling some of society’s most pressing challenges, from school exclusions to youth violence.

The programme was co-designed with clubs and informed by research into what works best in diverting young people away from crime. Those involved with delivery will benefit from funding for coaching and venue hire, as well as support with community events, training opportunities and new kit. These clubs will be at the heart of the project, delivering boxing to referred young people and having a positive impact on their community.

England Boxing’s newly appointed Regional Project Leads will each work closely with clubs, referral partners and communities to deliver Moves Different on the ground. Their experience in sport, youth engagement, and community development will ensure the programme is rooted in the needs of each region. Together, this team will support over 40 clubs and welcome more than 3,200 young people into the programme.

Louise Vidor, Project Manager, said: “We’re really excited to be launching Moves Different, which will help us evidence the societal impact boxing can have in supporting young people and evaluate its role as a vehicle for change.

“Working alongside statutory services and in partnership with affiliated clubs, we’ll engage over 3,200 young people who may be at risk of offending – offering them opportunities to get active, connect positively with their communities, and ultimately divert them away from offending behaviours.”

As Moves Different launches, we invite partners from youth justice services, schools, community organisations and beyond to work with us in identifying young people who could benefit. With your support, we can ensure Moves Different reaches those who need it most.

For more information on the project, click here.