FREE FOOTBALL sessions have been launched in Kidderminster and Stourport in a bid to help deter anti-social behaviour and youth crime, writes Aidan Kilcullen.
West Mercia Police and Kidderminster Harriers have launched the ‘Twilight Football’ scheme for children aged 13 to 16 to inspire and present them with an opportunity to develop positive relationships and essential skills they may otherwise have no access to.
Senior PCSO Andy Stevens said: “I am so pleased once again we are working with partners from our community to offer free football coaching to the young people of our town.
“Without the support of our partners, the sessions would simply not be possible.
“Sport is known to be an effective way of deterring young people from crime and to offer them a chance to train alongside a professional club like Kidderminster Harriers will hopefully inspire them to take this opportunity that could have a massively positive impact on their lives.”
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion also spoke about the importance of supporting the area’s young people.
“Young people are our future, so I believe it’s vitally important that we invest in the next generation to ensure they are given the support they need to make the right choices in life.
“I have seen first-hand the positive impact these sessions have on all children, especially those who may be facing hurdles in their life, by giving them a safe space to have fun, form positive relationships and learn new skills.
“Twilight Football’s success is also testament to the community focus PCSOs deliver in local communities.
“More than 20 years ago I supported their introduction in West Mercia, as they provide a vital link between the public and the police.”
Sessions, which began this week, are held from 4.30pm to 5.30pm on Mondays at Stourport High School, from 5pm to 6pm on Tuesdays at King Charles High School Astro and between 5pm and 6pm on Fridays at Baxter College Astro.
Anyone interested should email PCSO Andy Stevens at [email protected] for more information.
