Kanzen for Life unveils plans for £1 million community hub to transform wellbeing in Dundee

Picture: Kanzen for Life / Supplied

A new era of community empowerment has arrived in Dundee with the launch of the Kanzen for Life Centre, based in the heart of Stobswell on Clepington Road.

Developed by the local charity Kanzen for Life, the centre marks a significant step forward in tackling some of the city’s most pressing challenges: physical inactivity, social isolation, and mental health inequalities.

Founded in 2009, Kanzen began as a Karate organisation but has since evolved into a dynamic community charity that supports over 2,000 individuals each week across Dundee, Angus & Fife. The new centre will be the result of £1 million investment into the local area via capital investment and job creation. The centre is set to create ten new jobs while offering an inclusive programme of activity, wellbeing support, leadership development, and learning opportunities.

Picture: Kanzen for Life / Supplied

The impact is expected to be most keenly felt in the Stobswell West area of the city, where almost a third of residents are prescribed mental health medication and over a quarter of children are living in relative poverty. The Kanzen for Life Centre will provide a welcoming, positive space where people of all ages can come to improve their health, build confidence, and connect with others.

Roy O’Kane, Chief Officer of Kanzen for Life, said:

“This centre is more than just bricks and mortar, it is a symbol of hope and opportunity. We believe everyone deserves the chance to live a healthier, happier life, and this space will help make that a reality.”

The initiative has already received strong backing from local leaders, including Shona Robison MSP, who praised the charity’s long-standing commitment to social change through physical activity and education. The charity is working with the award winning Jon Frullani architects to deliver the project.

With planning applications submitted and community engagement underway, the Kanzen for Life Centre is an exciting addition to the wellbeing of Dundee.

Kanzen is actively raising funds towards the new centre and engaging with a variety of different partners and funders. If you would like to find out more it offers support then please contact info@kanzenforlife.com.