‘It changes lives’: The boxing coach urging people with disabilities to get in the ring

Christopher Peskett, who has learning difficulties himself as a result of a brain tumour at the age of six months, runs the disability boxing classes every Saturday.

Christopher said that he started the class because he believes there are a lot of “vulnerable adults with learning disabilities” and that he can “make a real change in their lives”.

Christopher picked up boxing as a hobby, receiving personal training sessions from former professional boxers.

He thinks that most gyms do not accept people with disabilities.

Christopher has been running the class for nine months and is adored by his participants.

“I love boxing so much” and “Chris is my favourite hero” said two regulars.

Getting out of the house, socialising and exercising is crucial for fitness and mental health and Christopher believes these things are not easily accessible to disabled people.

As a result of this, he believes his classes will prove to be hugely beneficial to participants.

Christopher said that “people with disabilities don’t get much of a social life” and that when they come to boxing their problems go away and ‘it puts a real smile on their face’.

He is determined to ensure that disabled people are given opportunities to show off what they can do.

Christopher’s long-term aim is to leave a legacy for the next person who wants to help people with disabilities.

As awareness and support grows for disabled people, Christopher hopes people across the country who have access to greater resources than he does and will succeed in helping people with disabilities achieve their dreams.