Transforming health, wellbeing and futures in Blacon

22 October 2025

A powerful collaboration between Rage Fitness Wellbeing Group and Avenue Services is making a real difference in Blacon, helping local families overcome barriers to health, wellbeing, and opportunity.

Based in the heart of the community at Blacon Adventure Playground, Rage has spent the past year delivering innovative physical, mental and emotional health programmes to support people of all ages and backgrounds.

From inclusive fitness classes and family wellbeing sessions to targeted support around neurodiversity, mental health and lifestyle change, the organisation has become a trusted lifeline for many who previously felt left behind.

Through funding and support from Avenue Services, families facing complex challenges – including poverty, poor physical health, social isolation and neurodiversity-related needs – have been able to access these life-changing services.

The partnership has removed cost and access barriers for those most in need, ensuring that financial hardship or personal circumstances do not stand in the way.

Craig Brown, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rage, said: “Our mission has always been about more than fitness – it’s about community, connection, and change.

“With Avenue Services’ support, we’ve been able to reach families who might otherwise never have walked through our doors. The progress we’re seeing, from improved mental health and confidence to healthier lifestyles and stronger family bonds, is truly life-changing.”

Participants have reported significant improvements in their mental wellbeing, reductions in anxiety, increased physical activity and stronger social connections.

Young people with neurodiverse conditions have benefited from structured movement sessions and safe, inclusive environments that build confidence and self-esteem. Parents have accessed support networks to reduce isolation and improve their emotional resilience.

For many, these interventions have been a vital first step toward breaking cycles of disadvantage and building foundations for a more hopeful and sustainable future.

Chris Leicester, Neighbourhood Partnerships Manager at Avenue Services, said: “We’re extremely proud to be working with Rage to deliver these programmes for our community in Blacon.

“We see first-hand the impact this work has and the difference it makes for local families.”

As demand for wellbeing support continues to grow, Rage Fitness and Avenue Services remain committed to expanding their work together, ensuring even more residents can access these important services.

Avenue Services, which is a not-for-profit organisation, is a joint venture between Sanctuary and Cheshire West and Chester Council.