Stoke-on-Trent youngsters who created their own youth group are receiving funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner. Norton Youth Group aims to tackle anti-social behaviour and lack of youth provision in the area.The group, started by teenagers and assisted by local PCSOs, is set to get £15,480 towards establishing weekly sessions for 11 to 18 year-olds in the Ball Green and Norton area. The money will pay for equipment, venue hire and the appointment of a youth worker to run the sessions.
PCC Matthew Ellis is ensuring that 100 per cent of funding received by Staffordshire Police from proceeds of crime seizures is going back to local communities.
The Proceeds of Crime Fund (formerly known as the Local Policing fund) is supporting projects in conjunction with local policing teams and local authorities. It is made up of assets and money seized by police from criminals in Staffordshire under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Mr Ellis said: “For the first time, 100 per cent of funding that comes back to Staffordshire Police from proceeds of crime seizures is going directly to local communities.
“Seeing young people show this much initiative is great. The way they have organised themselves to create this group shows real community spirit.”
Beginning in late February, the two-hour sessions will be held every Monday evening between 4.30pm and 6.30pm. Entry is free for 11 to 18 year-olds and will meet at St John’s Methodist Church on Knypersley Road.
Marvin Molloy, Community Development worker and Co-ordinator for the project said: “The money we have received from the PCC’s Proceeds of Crime Fund has provided our group of young people with proof that if they put their mind and effort into something, they can achieve what they want in life.”
Bids for funding from the PCC’s Proceeds of Crime Fund had to demonstrate a clear connection with reducing crime and fit into one of the Commissioner’s four priority areas: intervening early, putting victims first, preventing offender and re-offending, and improving public confidence.
For more details on Norton Youth Group contact Marvin Molloy on 07969 727405, visit www.facebook.com/nortonyouthgroup, or tweet @NortonYouth.
