Promoting healthy living and positive values through sport

Background

Byron Boxing Club, a not-for-profit based in Northfield, Aberdeen, provides expert boxing and fitness training to children, young people, and adults.

Serving 300 members aged 8 to 80 – including a thriving women’s group – the club also plays a vital role in the community by reducing anti-social behaviour and crime.

The club is committed to accessibility, offering free attendance, with an honesty box for donations.

All coaches are PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) checked, and the club is a proud member of the Scottish Boxing Association, with many members competing successfully on the boxing circuit.  

Support required

When we first visited Byron Boxing, we were struck by the energy, positivity, and incredible atmosphere.

However, further discussions and a closer look revealed areas in need of improvement.

✅ Building maintenance – redecorating the gym hall, upgrading changing facilities and toilets
✅ New boxing ring – the current ring was worn out and in need of replacement
✅ Essential equipment – boxing gloves, punch bags, hand weights, and skipping ropes required regular replacement
✅ Competition support – funding for travel, accommodation, and entry fees for competing members
✅ Minibus replacement – crucial for future competitions and training camps 

Support provided

With such an extensive ‘wish list’, we identified immediate priorities, focusing on essential equipment and funding for a new boxing ring. We worked with the club to:

✔ Identify the most urgent equipment needs and determine required quantities
✔ Develop a detailed budget for new gear, including gloves, punch bags, and fitness equipment
✔ Research and apply for funding from potential sponsors

With support from TAQA, Scotmid, and Aberdeen City Council’s Fairer Aberdeen Fund, the club was able to purchase a significant portion of the much-needed equipment—a major boost for members who see the club as a lifeline, a family, and a support system.

Additionally, through Aberdeen City Health & Care Partnership, we secured £5,000 via the Health Improvement Fund to help purchase a new boxing ring—replacing one that had seen one too many bouts!

Impact

🥊 Improved Physical Health – Regular training enhances cardiovascular health, strength, endurance, and overall fitness.
🧠 Mental Resilience & Well-being – The discipline required in boxing promotes mental toughness and serves as an excellent stress reliever, reducing anxiety and improving mood.
🤝 Community & Belonging – Byron Boxing fosters strong friendships and a supportive network, helping members develop confidence and self-discipline.
🎯 Life Skills & Goal Setting – The dedication required for training and competition translates into valuable life skills applicable in school, work, and everyday challenges.

Future plans      

🏗 Gym & Facility Upgrades – Planning is underway to improve the gym area, outdoor training space, and changing rooms.
🥇 Competition Support – We are actively seeking funding to cover entry fees, travel, and accommodation costs for members competing across Scotland.
🚛 New Minibus Fundraising – Essential for transporting boxers to training camps and competitions.

This presents a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to contribute by donating time, supplies, or funding towards the club’s modernisation.

Working In partnership

Partnerships are key for All Life Chances. We were able to make introductions and secure funding to offer “Byron Boxing at ALC” in Tillydrone, another project we support.

With 25 to 35 boxers attending weekly, this project is already proving to be a huge success in promoting healthy living and personal development.

Can you help?

Would like to find out more about how you can help Byron Boxing?  Would you like to help modernise the gym hall?  See your company name on the Boxing Rings?  Be part of making a big difference to so many?

If your answer is YES, please call 01224 976300 or email hello@alllifechances.org to find out more.

💙 Together, we can make a difference.