Domestic Abuse Survivors offered free boxing classes in Epping Forest
Essex Police have helped set up the initiative
Boxing classes for domestic abuse survivors are going ahead in Epping Forest with the help of Essex Police officers.
The sessions, run by Nicole Redgwell of Noo Yu CIC and fully funded by the Epping Community Safety Partnership (CSP), use the sport to empower survivors, recognise their own strengths and raise their self-esteem.
The sessions are also led by PC Nick Travers, and were funded after an application to Epping CSP made by Epping Forest District Commander Chief Inspector Tina Cooper. All the woman attending are also supported by Thrive Survivors Group Project.
Supporting these classes is part of our expanding commitment to supporting victims wherever possible – not just preventing crimes or attending incidents, but seeing offenders jailed and helping survivors rebuild their lives.
Ch Insp Cooper said: “It’s been incredible to experience first-hand the impact this course has on the women attending.
“I started working with the women of the Thrive Survivors Group Project when I started my role as District Commander nine months ago, and the appetite for this kind of activity in the group is clear to see.
“I’m proud to see PC Travers volunteering with Nicole – it’s a perfect example of the lengths our officers go to to make sure victims of domestic abuse are supported throughout their cases and beyond.”
Noo Yu CIC founder Nicole Redgwell said: “This course delivers so much more than just a workout. It’s a 10 week-long project that focuses on developing a support network, improving communication skills, building resilience and regulating your emotions.
“Tina and Nick’s participation adds something really unique to the whole course.
“The ladies will get an ASDAN qualification – which is recognised by AQA, Duke of Edinburgh and GCSE Sport – as well as mentoring and can then act as mentors for other survivors.
“There’s a strong group of women taking part and I’m happy to see they’re supporting each other so well with abuse that can be so devastating to their lives.”
Thrive Survivors Group Project Coordinator Phillis Njuguna added: “I’d like to thank Nicole, Nick and Tina for giving up their time to work with myself and the women we support.
“Boxing has an incredible impact on both physical health and mental wellbeing. I know I speak for everyone attending from our charity when I say this has made a huge difference.”