Eighty Bristol youngsters will benefit from a Careers and Boxing programme thanks to a £48,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris.
The Metro Mayor visited Empire Fighting Chance to see for himself how the local charity punches above its weight.
Founder and CEO Martin Bisp explained to the Metro Mayor how the West of England Combined Authority funding will enable it to expand its work to support young people aged 14 to 25.
The Careers and Boxing programme will help the participants to work out what careers it might want to pursue. There will be practical sessions on CV writing and a chance to obtain sports-based qualifications. The four-week ‘Streetwise with Money’ course will teach budgeting skills, all about taxes, payslips, bank accounts and how to save and invest money. Another group will take part in the six-week ‘Heavyweight Hustle’ to develop a new business venture and pitch to industry experts.
The programme links the participants with top local employers including Avon Fire and Rescue, Bristol Rovers FC, Rolls Royce, Tobacco Factory Theatre and We The Curious.
96 per cent of previous participants in programmes at the award-winning charity have said taking part made them feel more confident and motivated about their career.
Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “As a politician, I’m used to the rough-and-tumble of political combat, but this is very much a different type of ‘sparring’. I’m really pleased to be able to support Empire Fighting Chance who have such a great track record of working with young people in Easton and beyond. The knowledgeable and dedicated staff really engage with the young people who face the challenges that come with growing up in a deprived neighbourhood and help them to thrive. That’s great news for everyone on these courses and great news for Bristol as a whole. Making the most of everyone’s talents is the best way for our great city and region to succeed.”
