Why We Do What We Do
Next Gen Active CIC was born out of a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of young people in our local communities, with a focus on Dudley and surrounding areas. Our journey began with a desire to tackle some of the most pressing challenges that children and families face today—health inequality, social exclusion, and inactivity.
Dudley is a vibrant community, but it faces significant challenges, as in many regions across the UK.
Recent data shows that one in four children in Dudley is overweight by the time they start school, which increases as they progress through primary school. The rise in childhood obesity reflects wider issues of health inequality, particularly in more deprived areas.
Communities such as St Thomas’s, Upper Gornal, and Kates Hill experience some of the highest levels of health inequality in the borough. These are the areas where we are working hardest to make a difference.
Our core mission is to address health inequality by engaging children in physical activity through martial arts and sports, empowering them to lead healthier lives.
We believe in using movement as a tool for not only improving fitness but also building confidence, resilience, and mental well-being. Martial arts, especially, teaches discipline, respect, and mindfulness, helping young people develop key life skills that go beyond physical fitness.
Combating Unemployment and Social Exclusion
Dudley has historically faced higher-than-average unemployment rates, and some areas are still recovering from the effects of deindustrialisation. As of 2022, Dudley’s unemployment rate was above the national average at 5.3%, compared to the UK average of 4.3%. Many of the families we support come from communities still grappling with the economic impact of long-term job losses.
This has led to pockets of social exclusion, where families are often disconnected from community services and opportunities for their children.
At Next Gen Active CIC, we aim to bring families together through movement. By offering free or low-cost programmes in Wing Chun martial arts, football, dodgeball, and other physical activities, we ensure that every child—no matter their background—has the opportunity to get involved.�
Community Engagement and Long-term Impact
We know that the impact of physical activity extends far beyond individual fitness. By encouraging children to take part in our programmes, we’re fostering long-term engagement in movement, which leads to healthier futures.
Studies have shown that children who are active from an early age are more likely to continue being active as adults, reducing their risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Beyond health, our focus on community engagement means that we are also playing a part in improving social cohesion. Through our group activities, we encourage children to work together, build friendships, and develop a sense of belonging. Our martial arts programmes, in particular, foster respect, discipline, and teamwork—values that are crucial for personal development and long-term success.
We are proud of the impact we are already making in the community, and we look forward to expanding our reach in the years to come.
By working closely with local schools, community centres, and Dudley Council, we are helping to build a brighter, healthier future for the next generation.
