12th August 2014
Two hard-working community groups in Wigton had their efforts officially recognised this week when each was presented with a cheque from the High Sheriff of Cumbria, Martyn Hart.
The High Sheriff’s Crimebeat Fund, administered by Cumbria Community Foundation, enables community groups to provide activities for young people who are involved or in danger of becoming involved in crime or anti-social behaviour.
Wigton Youth Station received £1,700 towards their ‘You Can’t Catch Me’ pilot programme. It aims to inform and educate young people about all elements of criminality within the youth justice system. Sessions run weekly and include activities on perception of young people, consequences of crime and drama workshops.
Angela Bicknell, Centre Manager for the Youth Station said: “Support like this is extremely important and enables young people to demonstrate the positive contributions they have to make within their communities.”
Borderlines provides weekly angling sessions for young people who are unable to cope with mainstream education and have been involved in anti-social behaviour. They received £2,126 from the fund.
Chris Bowman, Borderlines Company Secretary and angling instructor said: “This project develops skills around team building, effective listening, practical angling skills, raising awareness of environmental issues and encouraging responsible behaviour towards each other and the various locations we fish at.”
Martyn Hart said: “A large part of my work is spent meeting the outstanding groups and individuals in our county who – so often voluntarily – provide selfless, invaluable assistance to others.
“I have witnessed the significant individual and social benefits that participation in angling can bring to young people. The use of angling and the environment together with a personal and social development approach has great potential to engage and transform outcomes for some of the most disadvantaged young people.”
For further details about the fund, click here or contact Annalee Holliday on 01900 825760.