A Burton bicycle scheme which teaches children about safety is recycling criminals’ cash after receiving funding from Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Ellis.
Burton Albion Community Trust was given £8,000, from the Commissioner’s Proceeds of Crime Fund, to give young people the opportunity to refurbish and keep used push bikes.
The programme involves a two day course for children where they will learn aspects such as how to change and check brakes, fix punctures and understand bike and road safety.
The Proceeds of Crime Fund is made up of assets and money seized by police from criminals in Staffordshire under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Staffordshire Police continues to strip criminals of their assets – hitting them where it hurts.
Mr Ellis said: “One hundred per cent of funding that comes back to Staffordshire Police from proceeds of crime seizures is going directly to local communities. Schemes like this benefit both young people and the wider-community in a good way.
“Hearing all about the recycle programme was great. It shows how creating opportunities for young people can help change behaviours for the better.”
Matt Hancock, Community Manager for Burton Albion Community Trust said: “We are delighted to receive funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner to help develop our ongoing social inclusion programmes.
“The funding will allow us to work with over 80 children in five different wards in Burton. Children will develop important social skills such as honesty and teamwork whilst also allowing them to learn valuable road safety lessons and bike maintenance.”
“At the conclusion of each programme families will be invited to a Burton Albion FC game where they will be presented with their refurbished bike which they can keep.”
To find out more about the Albion Community Trust and the Albion 2 Engage programme email matthew.hancock@burtonalbionfc.co.uk
