The Frank Bruno Foundation was founded as a direct result of the former heavy weight Champion of the world, Frank Bruno, wanting to create a positive change in communities. Frank has spoken openly of the vital role exercise has played in his battle with mental ill-health and is now driven to help others battle their own mental health challenges. Frank wanted to help support those struggling with early-stage mental ill health as well as raise awareness of causes that may contribute to mental ill health.
Having trained daily as a boxer, Frank recognised that physical exercise and nutrition can be promoted to work alongside the medical support given by professionals.
Having approached West Northants Council with his vision to support those struggling with mental ill health, particularly in deprived areas, the Council offered a run-down Community Centre in Standens Barn to the charity and in 2021 the charity, with help of local businesses. were able to renovate and refurbish the centre allowing the Foundation to run its first Round by Round Programme.
The Frank Bruno Foundation exists to provide support, encouragement and the motivation to succeed for those currently facing or recovering from early-stage mental ill health issues. The Foundation aims to achieve this by providing opportunities to participate in non-contact boxing and mental health and wellbeing workshops offering clients the tools to manage their own mental health individually with strategies tailored to them.
Since the Covid Pandemic, the need for mental health support has increased dramatically and local mental health services have been under significant strain. The Frank Bruno Foundation has worked tirelessly to create a safe space for their clients to access, where they can receive the right support over an eight week programme with drop in sessions to continue their support upon completion. This has given clients routine and purpose, something which helps to improve self-confidence, self-regulation, develop self-worth and social skills and increase mental wellbeing.
The programmes delivered by The Frank Bruno Foundation also provide social inclusion, without judgement, and help to build physical and emotional strengths and achievements. It is The Foundation’s aim is to offer a non-discrminatory service that will allow clients to leave using the skills they learn to develop a happier, more fulfilling and successful future.
With approximately 1,000 people using the Round by Round Centre based in Standens Barn, Northampton, each month, the Foundation is making a significant social impact in Northamptonshire communities and surrounding areas, being driven by a passionate and dedicated team.
As a charity, they are run entirely on donations and grant contributions, with the staff on minimum wage and a team of Trustees and volunteers giving their time for free.
To allow the Foundation to continue to do the work that they do they need to gain a regular income and ensure the security for the people that they help who need the support now.
If you think your company may be able to help by becoming involved in the Foundation, whether it is by considering making them your charity of choice, by organising sponsored events or even booking a team-building session with the Foundation – showing your teams that you are investing in their mental health and having fun at the same time - then the Team would love to hear from you.
The Frank Bruno Foundation Team would be happy to invite you into the Round by Round Centre, show you the work that they do and meet some of the people they have helped. They are here today and would love to speak to you so please say hello or contact them and go along and meet the team.
