Boxing Clever Ballymun is a 20-week integrated fitness and education substance-use rehabilitation programme that focuses on elements of physical, social, educational and community capital that supports those currently or historically engaging in problematic substance use. Boxing Clever originated in Ballymun in 2012, and since then it has been incorporated into treatment and rehabilitation services or initiatives throughout Ireland. Since its inception, 150 participants have engaged with the programme. Ballymun Youth Action Project (BYAP) manages and co-ordinates Boxing Clever Ballymun in collaboration with local services and supports.

The aim of the current research was to explore the role and contribution of the Boxing Clever Programme in terms of facilitating supportive progression opportunities and environments at a participant and community level (2012-2024). These research aims were achieved using a qualitative methodology. Nine in-person or online focus group interviews were conducted with 32 key stakeholders during May-November 2024. More specifically, this research sought to:

• Determine the extent to which participants perceive Boxing Clever as making a difference in their lives,
• Highlight factors that may have complemented or restricted the level of programme impact and outcomes over time,
• Explore how relational connections can drive initiatives like Boxing Clever in Ballymun and other communities,
• Present opportunities for further capacity building or development arising from the collective impact of Boxing Clever participants and graduates locally,
• Illustrate how Boxing Clever fits into the broader recovery movement and within an integrated approach to responding to drug and alcohol use.