Boxing club beats boredom and isolation in Ballymena with Housing Executive support

Pictured at All Saints Boxing Club, Ballymena are, (L-R), John Read, Housing Executive Good Relations Officer, Mid and East Antrim, Brendan Dunne, All Saints Boxing Club Coach, Gareth Atkinson, All Saints Boxing Club member and Roy McClean, Housing Executive Assistant Area Manager, Mid and East Antrim.

A Ballymena boxing club is leading the charge against isolation and poor health with a community programme that’s making a real difference to the lives of local residents aged over 40.

All Saints Boxing Club, based near the Dunclug and Doury Road estates, recently delivered its popular Fighting Fit course, thanks to a £3,735 Community Involvement Grant from the Housing Executive.

The 12-week initiative focused on improving physical fitness and mental wellbeing, especially for those living with complex needs. The funding covered the cost of coaching, equipment, and refreshments—ensuring that the programme remained free and accessible to all.

Empowering People to Live Happier, Healthier Lives

All Saints coach Brendan Dunne highlighted the positive impact the programme has had on participants and the wider community.

“This programme equips people over 40 with the tools to live happier and healthier lives. We were delighted to see even more people with complex needs take part this year.

“Participating created a sense of belonging and achievement because they no longer felt isolated and excluded from clubs and sporting activities.”

“Participants benefited from the guidance of the club’s experienced coaching staff, all of whom provided personalised, compassionate support throughout the course.”

“Our highly qualified, skilled and experienced coaches provided the highest level of support and their input was key to the success of the programme,” he added.

Tackling Cost-of-Living Pressures Through Community Fitness

At a time when many households are feeling the financial strain, Brendan believes that schemes like Fighting Fit offer more than just physical exercise.

“With the cost-of-living crisis we realise that courses like this are a lifeline to adults living on a tight budget.

“By getting involved in healthy schemes like this, adults can inspire the younger generations to get active in their community and steer clear of negative influences.

We are extremely grateful to the Housing Executive for their support.”

Pictured at All Saints Boxing Club, Ballymena are, left to right, Gareth Atkinson, All Saints Boxing Club member and Brendan Dunne, All Saints Boxing Club coach.

Housing Executive Commends Community Impact

Roy McClean, Housing Executive Assistant Manager for Mid and East Antrim, praised the club and other community groups for their dedication and the tangible benefits they deliver year-round.

“We are very fortunate to work with many amazing community groups and volunteers who are the backbone of our communities.

“Groups provide support, compassion and dedication throughout the year.

“Meticulously planned projects help make a real difference to so many lives and we would like all groups to know how much we appreciate what they do.

All Saints Boxing Club is one such group and it is a pleasure to support them.”

Community Strength Through Sport

The Fighting Fit programme continues to demonstrate the power of grassroots sport in building stronger, healthier communities. For many, it is not only an opportunity to improve fitness, but a lifeline against loneliness, exclusion, and inactivity.

To find out more about support available in your community, visit nihe.gov.uk.