Posted on: Tuesday 9 December 2025
A weightlifting class is helping a group of female secondary school pupils feel empowered and boost their self-confidence.
The Uplift programme is a joint initiative run by SSC gym, in Pontypool, and Torfaen Council.
It has previously provided support for boys and girls at risk of becoming disengaged in education and male pupils at risk of anti-social behaviour.
This term, the first all-female group was launched for pupils at West Monmouth School identified as benefiting from support to improve their self-confidence and resilience.
Meg Dixon, owner of SSC gym, next to the Riverside car park, said: "The classes are having a very positive effect on the girls' confidence. It's great to see them when they realise they can do more than they think."
Garin Vivian, sports development officer at West Monmouth School, said: "Since introducing the weightlifting classes, we’ve seen a noticeable boost in students’ confidence, resilience and overall engagement.
"The sessions have given young people a new sense of achievement, both in and out of the gym, and the impact on their well-being has been incredibly encouraging."
Cllr Fiona Cross, Executive Member for Communities, said: "It's great to see programmes like this having a positive impact on young people. This is a great example of what we mean by The Deal, working proactively with local businesses like SSC gym and our mentoring partner to prevent young people becoming involved in harmful situations is better for them and their communities."
The Uplift programme is run by the council's Community Safety team, with support from the sport, fitness and leisure team. It's open to all secondary schools. For more information, contact communitysafety@torfaen.gov.uk
The all-female group has been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner's Office.
The council is consulting on a new way of working collaboratively with communities, partners and businesses. Get involved in the conversation about a Torfaen Deal at Get Involved Torfaen: https://getinvolved.torfaen.gov.uk/torfaen-deal