Commissioner visits Caerau Ely boxing club to see community funding in action

On Friday, the Commissioner visited Caerau Ely Boxing Club, alongside the MP for Cardiff West, Alex Barros-Curtis, and local Police Inspector Tim Ursell.

The visit followed an appeal made earlier this year by Liam Mackay, who runs the boxing club, after he shared a post on Instagram asking for support to help fund a new boxing ring. The Commissioner was pleased to be able to support the club and see first-hand the impact that this investment has had on children and young people in the community.

During the visit, it was clear just how important community spaces like Caerau Ely Boxing Club are. Beyond sport, the club provides young people with positive role models, structure, discipline and a safe place to build confidence and resilience. The visit highlighted the real difference that access to the right equipment and ongoing support can make in helping young people thrive.

The Commissioner reiterated the importance of continued investment in community groups across South Wales, particularly those supporting children and young people. This commitment aligns closely with the recently launched Children and Young People’s Police, Crime and Justice Plan, which sets out six clear priorities to ensure young people feel safe, heard and respected in their communities. Central to the plan is ensuring that young people’s voices help inform policing and community safety decisions.

While at the club, the Commissioner also took time to speak with some of the young people who attend regularly. Hearing directly from them about their priorities, concerns and experiences of policing was both insightful and humbling, reinforcing the value of meaningful engagement with young people at a local level.

As PCC, the Commissioner remains committed to making communities safer by supporting community groups, clubs and youth services that are making a real and lasting difference.

The Commissioner is keen to hear from community groups across South Wales and encourages those doing positive work in their areas to get in touch with the Office, with a view to future visits.

Investment in communities will remain a priority, ensuring that South Wales continues to move towards being a safe, just and inclusive place for everyone.