We are a non for profit, supporting vulnerable young people and adults through capability building programmes using the principles of Martial Arts https://vimeo.com/475819308 Taking Shape Association is a charitable organisation offering a rich and vast range of affordable fitness and holistic services intrinsically linked to community engagement, restorative justice and promoting good health for
people of all ages (see below for more detail). We offer a vast range of affordable fitness and holistic services, which combine the values and disciplines of Martial Arts (Kung-Fu, Karate, boxing, Muay Thai, other self-defense methods) with elements of non-physical disciplines like body coordination, balance, conditioning, fitness, mental focus, confidence, mentoring, reflection, coaching, and meditation to enhance mental wellbeing and to empower participants to build resilience and confidence to make positive life choices and achieve personal goals. Our main focus is children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who are at risk of violence and criminal exploitation but we also work with vulnerable adults. Taking Shape was formed from Dark Shadow Kung Fu in 2013 to meet the needs of the community using promotion of good health, the relief of sickness through gentle exercise, well-being exercises and alternative therapies. We typically work with cohorts of young people over 8-12 week programmes. One of our signature programmes is Positive Change. Positive Change takes place over 12 weeks for half a day each. It aims to build resilience and confidence and raise awareness of individuals’ own cultures and that of other people. We also place strong emphasis on building trusted relationships and providing ongoing support. ‘Positive Change’ includes a range of motivational speakers and activities. We also work with trusted partners to support participants with education, training, and employment. Upon completion, participants are awarded AQA Unit qualifications. The programme incorporates curricula on risk taking behaviours, peer norms and peer pressure (e.g. about acceptability of carrying weapons), social and emotional barriers to learning, and social and community cohesion. The programme is person-centered and targets young people who lack positive role models, who are at risk of criminal exploitation, or who fear or are experiencing violent crime. Through ‘Positive Change’, we want to develop the young people into leaders of the future.
