The NHS has inaugurated a boxing facility in south-east London, specifically crafted to utilize the benefits of non-contact boxing for mental health improvement.

Located at the NHS’s Goldie Leigh site in Abbey Wood, Bexley, this gym emphasizes therapeutic, non-contact boxing aimed at supporting individuals with mental health challenges, learning disabilities, Parkinson’s, dementia, and other neurological disorders.

In collaboration with the mental health charity Off The Ropes, the Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust has established the gym under a 10-year lease for a previously unused area.

Off The Ropes was established by Warren Dunkley, a former professional boxer and NHS occupational therapist with 25 years of experience.

Dunkley recognized the potential of boxing in enhancing mental wellness during his time working in a mental health ward.

He shared, “A few clients discovered my background in boxing and encouraged me to bring my pads for some training, and from that point, it just took off.”

“This initiative serves dual purposes for me—helping individuals and enjoying my role as an occupational therapist while pursuing my passion for boxing.”

The program began with weekly boxing sessions on an acute ward.

Following a positive response, it expanded to three sessions weekly across acute, intensive care, and female wards.

Josh Nelson, who was diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder in his early adolescence, has dedicated 15 years to boxing and now serves as a coach.

“During manic episodes, I feel intensely energized. Conversely, I can experience a drastic low. Boxing has made a significant difference in my life,” he remarked.

“It has instilled discipline, focus, and a relentless work ethic in me.”

He referred to the skills he has gained and the people he has encountered as “invaluable.”

Lauren Louise, with a decade of boxing experience, stated, “Boxing has unveiled a confidence in me that I never realized I had.”

“It’s not about your boxing proficiency; it’s about coming here and achieving what you can.”

As per NHS England, there were approximately 3.8 million individuals in contact with the NHS for mental health, learning disabilities, and autism services in 2024—an increase of nearly 40% since before the pandemic.

Dr. Ife Okocha, the chief executive of Oxleas Trust and a psychiatrist, emphasized the necessity for more initiatives like the Off The Ropes gym.

He remarked, “We must ensure that individuals do not struggle to find commercial spaces. The NHS estate should not only be a health center but also serve as a wellness hub for the communities we support.”