Beyond The Cage helped Shay Walsh MMA and Morecambe FC Foundation transform pilot funding into Fighting Chance Fridays - reducing anti-social behaviour and building youth resilience.

Problem

Local authorities and funders identified an urgent need to reduce anti-social behaviour among young people in Lancaster, particularly during peak Friday evening hours.

Morecambe FC Community Foundation secured pilot funding to address this challenge but needed credible delivery partners who could engage vulnerable cohorts in a meaningful and sustainable way.

Solution

On behalf of Shay Walsh MMA, BTC coordinated and negotiated a partnership framework that aligned the Foundation’s KPIs with a role model-led programme. By positioning the gym as a safe and structured environment, we enabled a credible early-intervention pathway that funders could trust.

We continue to support the partnership and impact evaluation.

Programme Overview

Fighting Chance Fridays is a weekly mixed martial arts (MMA) initiative offering young people a safe, supportive space to stay active, build resilience, and form positive relationships.

Sessions are delivered in a fun, accessible way by inspiring coaches who promote discipline, belonging, and identity - creating an environment where young people can thrive.

Key Outcomes (so far)

• Provided a positive diversion during peak anti-social behaviour hours.

• Built identity, discipline, and resilience among participants.

• Improved emotional literacy and accountability.

• Strengthened collaboration between Shay Walsh MMA, MFCCF, and community services.

• Created a repeatable pilot model with potential to scale across future projects.