Case Studies

Weight & Cakes: Building Stronger Bodies and a Healthier Community

Sunderland faces significant challenges with youth engagement and anti-social behaviour. Weight & Cakes established in 2021 by Stuart Chandler in Sunderland, emerged as a response to these issues, offering more than just a typical gym experience by using an innovative approach to fitness and community support.

Along with providing Olympic weightlifting instruction, young people gain access to:

• Counselling: Addressing emotional and mental health needs.
• Essential Food & Hygiene Products: Ensuring necessities are met.
• A Strong Community: Fostering teamwork, mutual support, and belonging.

This unique blend of physical training and comprehensive support creates a holistic approach to empowering young people and addressing community needs.

The founder and the team

Stuart Chandler, discovered her passion for weightlifting later in life but quickly achieved success, earning multiple championship titles at Northern, British, and European levels. Her journey and desire to make a difference led to the creation of Weight & Cakes. Stuart’s Personal Training and Mental Health First Aid qualifications underscore the organisation’s commitment to holistic well-being. The team includes two competing athletes who provide inspiration and expertise and two dedicated coaches offering guidance and training.

Moreover, Weight & Cakes collaborates with Together with Justice and local law enforcement, extending their reach to young people struggling with anti-social behaviour.

Mission and Impact

Pic Credit: Weights & Cakes

Weight & Cakes’ core mission is to increase social inclusion, improve fitness and general well-being, and boost self-confidence among participants. They also inspire individuals to achieve their full potential, enabling them to live a more connected and healthier lifestyle in their safe and inclusive space based in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear.

The impact of their holistic approach has demonstrably improved young lives:

• Increased School Attendance: Demonstrating a commitment to education.
• Reduced Anti-Social Behaviour: Fostering a sense of responsibility within the community.
• Growing Community Pride: Cultivating a positive and supportive environment

These achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, Weight & Cakes earned the Social Enterprise of the Year award, cementing its status as a beacon of empowerment and community support.

Scaling Up with Firstport’s Support

Weight & Cakes secured a Social Enterprise Boost Fund  from Firstport in January 2024 to reach more young people from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. This funding enabled them to:

• Expand Reach: Introduce new weightlifting classes at Rangepark and Southwick primary schools.
• Engage More Youth: Attract 12 new members to the successful Girls Group, with a waiting list highlighting its growing demand.

In future, with Firstport’s assistance, they plan to

• Offer More Scholarships: Removing financial barriers for young people in need.
• Introduce Family Nutrition Sessions: Promoting healthy eating habits for a holistic approach to well-being.
• Extend Counselling Hours: Expanding access to mental health support.

A promising future

Weight & Cakes CIC stands as a shining example of how a community-focused organisation can leverage fitness to empower young people and foster positive change. Their dedication to individual growth and collective strength is building a healthier, more inclusive future for Sunderland’s youth. As they continue to break down barriers and make training and sports accessible to all, regardless of background or ability, Weight & Cakes is not just building stronger bodies but a stronger community.

The next step
Find out more about on their website and by following them on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter)

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