A NEW PROJECT aimed at reducing youth offending across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys, has been launched by Hafan Cymru.
The event began with a snapshot of what would be featured in the new project – Prevent – for those aged 10-18.
Young people were then encouraged to write their dislikes on plates – and their life’s goals on footballs. These balls were then kicked at the crockery to represent a new start for the region’s young people.
They also had the opportunity to have a kick about and to play netball with Christopher Salmon, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys.
The event was attended by young people from the Carmarthen area along with representatives of organisations such as the Dr Mz youth project, Safer Pembrokeshire, Dyfed-Powys Police and the Carmarthenshire County Council youth service.
Their goals included: To have a happy life; to be happy; To make friends; to make happy memories; To realise that I’m important; To encourage respect for young people; For everyone to be treated as equals; To see everybody treated the same; To feel there are things I can achieve.
The work of Prevent, which has a close focus on substance misuse and domestic abuse, is being funded by Mr Salmon.
Hafan Cymru acting Chief Executive Nikki Warrington said: “Our Prevent project will have a focused approach. Through a series of interactive and themed workshops for young people, we aim to raise awareness, prevent and ultimately to cease offending behaviour amongst young people.”
Mr Salmon added: “Prevent is an innovative idea that will improve behaviour and keep communities safe.
“I’m focused on improving behaviour and tackling causes of antisocial behaviour. I want to see work with families to give young people responsibility and respect.”
Prevent, run by Carmarthen-based Hafan Cymru, has funding until March 2016. Further funding may follow.
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