THE success of two local projects supported by annual grants is being celebrated in Burntwood.
In April 2024, Platinum Boxing and Burton and District Mind were awarded funding of £5,000 a year for three years by Burntwood Town Council.
It came as part of efforts to boost adult mental health and local young people.
The money has allowed Platinum Boxing, which is based at Redwood Park, to increase class numbers for young people and deliver training focused on enabling them to learn about the impact of choices they make inside and outside of the gym.
Steve Cadman, from Platinum Boxing, said:
“The help from Burntwood Town Council has enabled the club to further expand on engaging with youngsters in the local area.
“Some of the grant has been used on running costs, further equipment and enabling participants who are affected by current financial issues.
“I have been extremely pleased with the work of our coaches and that of the participants who have really pushed on with their discipline, fitness and skills sets.”
Cllr Laura Ennis, chair of Burntwood Town Council, paid a visit to the gym to see how the funding was benefiting local residents.
She said:
“It was wonderful to see what Platinum have to offer the young people in our community.
“The training looks hard, but everyone was working well and listening to what the coaches had to say. It was great seeing boys and girls working well together.
“Platinum Boxing work hard with the young people that attend to teach them about consequential thinking, which helps young people consider their actions carefully.
“It’s great to hear that Platinum also offer free training to young people who may to struggle at the moment so no one is left out.”
Meanwhile, Burton and District Mind have also established themselves as a new provider in Burntwood thanks to the grant.
It has allowed the organisation to offer services and support to adults with their mental health and wellbeing, including through a music mindfulness programme, mind makeover sessions for women, creative spaces arts project for people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and an ecotherapy project.
Keri Lawrence, development and sustainability Officer at Burton and District Mind said:
“Due to the pandemic and the cost of living crisis more people are experiencing mental health problems than before.
“Burntwood Town Council and Burton and District Mind have partnered to ensure there is more mental health provision through Burntwood. The partnership has enabled us to reach out to local people to ask them what they would like.
“As we move into our second year, we already have plans to work in partnership with groups involved in boxing and football, and provide more services and ideas for good mental health across Burntwood’s thriving business community.”
Cllr Di Evans, chair of the council’s community and partnerships committee, said:
“Burntwood Town Council is pleased to support Burton and District Mind’s new initiatives and help with funding to enable Burntwood residents to access mental health and wellbeing support.
“Help at the point of need is crucial for so many and being based locally is also important.”
