Swansea City AFC Foundations Targeted Interventions programme diverts young people from criminal justice system
Swansea City AFC Foundation have helped more than 50 at-risk young people from across the city to move away from the criminal justice system through sporting activities.
Partnering with the Targeted Interventions programme which is funded by the UK Governments’ Youth Justice Sport Fund, the Foundation delivered 155 hours of mentoring and 138 hours of sports to vulnerable young people who had been identified as being at risk of being drawn into crime or gangs.
The project includes workshops, which help educate participants on the real-life dangers and consequences of substance misuse and risky behaviours, as well as talks from people like Cullan Mais who discussed his personal experiences with addiction, mental health and prison life before providing his roadmap to recovery.
The foundation were one of the 200 successful organisations awarded with a share of the funding and, as well as delivering workshops, they were also able to provide an opportunity to earn up to six extra-curricular qualifications which aided in expanding participants’ skillsets and enhance future prospects.
One of the highpoints of the programme was the opportunity to take part in the Foundation’s ‘fixture within a fixture’ event hosted by Sheffield United Community Trust.
Twenty young people from the Targeted Interventions programme travelled to the Steel City to represent Swansea City in a match against a team from the Blades’ trust.
After the game, the group cheered on the Swans first team at Bramall Lane.
Beth Robinson, Targeted Interventions coordinator, believes the programme has empowered young people to make positive life choices and helped them strive for successful futures.
“Sport is a powerful tool that can divert young people away from negative peer groups, anti-social behaviour and criminal activity,” said Robinson.
“It’s extremely important that we not only provide a positive outlet for young people, but also teach them effective coping mechanisms to deal with day-to-day life.
“Through holistic support, the programme has nurtured optimism and helped shape resilient, pro-social individuals. It’s great to see the significant impact we continue to have on young people.”
