Money Seized from Criminal Activity Helps to Reduce ASB in Maryport
Cumbria’s Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (DPFCC) Mike Johnson visited Maryport’s Boys and Girls Club, to see first-hand how equipment purchased from the Property Fund is being put to good use. The property fund re-invests money seized from criminal activity and distributes it into local projects, aimed at providing activities that help to reduce crime in communities across Cumbria.
Maryport’s Boys and Girls Club was recently awarded £1,500 grant from the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s Property Fund to buy craft resources, update their sports equipment and replace the centre’s wall mounted TV.
DPFCC Mike Johnson comments: “Maryport boys and girls club has been instrumental in diverting young people away from anti-social behaviour and crime in the local area.
“The success of the club is reflected by the number of young people attending each week and the benefit to the community is clear, as the local neighbourhood policing team see a noticeable reduction in anti-social behaviour on the evenings that the club takes place.
“The club encourages young people to take a break from their phones and get involved in sporting and craft activities. In doing so they develop their social skills, build stronger relationships with other members and alongside the team of volunteers, learn to work together.
“By regularly attending they become part of a team, develop respect for each other, appreciate the volunteers and build friendships within the community.”
Club leader Bryan Thompson MBE comments: “Over the years, Maryport boys and girls club has been such a good place for local children to meet and have fun. The joy and pleasure it brings to everyone involved is incredibly rewarding and as long as it continues to do so, our door will always be open.”
Inspector Pete Aiston, Allerdale Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “It is pleasing to see that money generated and seized from those who commit crime, is redistributed into very worthwhile initiatives within our communities.
“Such clubs provide fun and engaging activities for young people which can have a positive impact on local communities.”
