Self defence initiative for children

A national-self defence initiative for children has been launched across South Cheshire, reaching over 200 children in the area.

MANTIS programme aims to 'Manage Any Nasty Trouble in Society' by preparing children to defend themselves in difficult situations, to keep them safe from violence.

Children, parents, instructors and sponsors gathered at TGA Martial Arts Centre of Excellence to launch the opening of the programme which is now being rolled out across schools in South Cheshire.

The eight week self-defence programme is focused on improving the lives of children by providing them with quick solutions to difficult situations, enabling them to feel safer in society.

The nationwide initiative is partnered with the Anti-Bullying Alliance hosted by the National Children's Bureau. Together, representatives from MANTIS were invited to Westminster to speak with Minister for Children and Families and Crewe and Nantwich MP, Edward Timpson, to discuss the united front needed to eradicate bullying.

TGA Marital Arts CEO Damian Glasheen has launched the MANTIS programme through his Centre of Excellence, where his instructors will teach the self-defence programme in schools across Crewe, Sandbach and Nantwich starting this week.

Damian said: "The response from parents, their children and the local schools to this programme has been phenomenal. The children who have already tried it can see the benefits already of gaining confidence about how to defend themselves without 'fighting back'.

"We are delighted to support the community in this positive way by promoting safe self-defence moves in schools, while also promoting discipline and respect at the same time."

Isaac Hobbis, aged 7, said: "Today was awesome, we were taught two moves that were easy to understand and I loved it!"

MANTIS is sponsored by local Digital Marketing Agency Bumblebee Digital. Jamie Stewart, CEO of Bumblebee Digital, said: "We're really excited at Bumblebee Digital to be sponsoring the MANTIS programme by giving something back to the community.

"My two children do martial arts at TGA Martial Arts and it's had a big impact on helping build their confidence, so being able to help give kids in the local area these vital skills in the 8 week programme i something thats really important to me... its really exciting."

Speaking about MANTIS, Lauren Seager-Smith, National Coordinator of Anti-Bullying Alliance, said:  "We want all of our children to live happy, fulfilled lives without fear of bullying. The 'Children's Protector' is a powerful tool to empower children in the face of a physical attack.  All of us – whether children or adults can benefit from learning these simple techniques"

For more information about TGA Martial Arts and MANTIS delivery in Cheshire, contact Damian Glasheen by emailing hello@tgamartialarts.com or calling 0800 035 1507

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