Self-defence sessions
The weekly self-defence sessions form a key part of the work being done by the Ridge Community Centre around the local estate with young people, running diversionary activities that help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and help young people gain key skills.
It is also a key part of the Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) project in Lancaster, with education sessions on the risks associated with drinking alcohol, with education sessions included as part of the programme.
Several young people have also become young leaders following the sessions and other work that is being done by Ridge Community Centre – including the first CAP support volunteer in the UK.
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said:
“It was great to see so many young people enjoying the sessions been run at the Kaizen Centre and the work being done through Ridge Community Centre is making a real difference in the area.
“I was also really pleased to talk to several who have become volunteers and ambassadors themselves after getting involved with the sessions – they are key in taking this work forward across the rest of the area.
“Developing safe and confident communities is a key priority in my police and crime plan and it’s great to see a real difference being made in areas that are benefiting from my Community Action Fund, which supports community groups in keeping their area safe and reducing crime.”
Lisa Richardson, Director at EMUES UK CIC, who organised the project, said:
“Being able to utilise the Commissioner’s Community Action Fund played a key part in allowing us to deliver this project, which has made such a difference for young people in the area.
“The whole community can see the difference that projects such as this have made, and to see so many young people go on to become young leaders and ambassadors within our community has been a real testament to how positive these sessions have been.”
For more details about the Community Action Fund, including funding criteria and how to apply, visit the CAF section of the Commissioners website www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/our-money/grant-funding/community-action-fund/
