Newark showcase shines light on activities available to keep young people out of trouble

Police officers pictured at the Newark activity showcase (picture credit: Newark Advertiser)

Dance, archery and boxing were all on show at a police-led youth event designed to crackdown on ASB in Newark.

Young people were given the chance to have a go at all sorts of sports and activities at the town’s first ever activity showcase.

From trying their hand at indoor archery, to putting up a tent with the Scouts, to learning how to do CPR, all interests were catered for.

The main purpose of the YMCA Activity Village-based event was to highlight the sheer variety of things for young people to do in the town.

Tackling antisocial behaviour (ASB) has been a long-held policing priority for Newark, with vast amounts of time spent trying to deter offending.  

By proving a visible policing presence on the streets and working closely with community partners, ASB levels have dropped by 14 per cent in the last year.

Helping young people find fun things to do so they don’t feel the need to go out and cause trouble is another method targeted to reduce rates further in Newark.

Keeping this in mind, neighbourhood policing officers and the force’s Prevention Hub teamed up to set up what they hope will be the first of many showcase events.

Inspector Charlotte Ellam, Newark and Sherwood’s district commander, said:

“Our Newark neighbourhood policing team were really excited to work with officers from the Prevention Hub to support this event. 

“As part of our work to reduce antisocial behaviour we recognise the importance of providing young people with opportunities to take part in these types of activities, and to develop meaningful interests and hobbies. 

“Having the opportunity to have such positive engagement with young people helps us build relationships and divert them away from potentially becoming involved in ASB and low-level criminality.”

Boxing, theatre and archery clubs were just some of the groups looking to entice new members to join at the showcase at the YMCA on Saturday 2 November.

Gyms and dance studios were also represented, as were the Marine Cadets and Scouts, while the mental health service team were there to offer tips on how to manage feelings of anxiety.  

The event was held in the lead up to the national ASB Awareness Week of action, which runs from 18 to 24 November.

Inspector Paul Peatfield, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Prevention Hub, said:

“Working with our neighbourhood teams and partners to engage with our youth communities provides opportunities for them to see another side to policing.

“As well as providing safe spaces for young people, such initiatives are proven to reduce ASB, and create platforms to improve community cohesion, support families and identify activities where young people can develop longstanding hobbies.

“They also give the chance for people to learn important life skills such as making positive decisions, leadership and communication skills.”

Becky Dobb, community fundraising manager at the YMCA, added:

“We were thrilled to host the Newark activity showcase at the YMCA Village.

“This youth discovery event truly embodies why the Village was established in Newark, to provide young people with opportunities to explore new hobbies, spark their interests, and discover their potential.

“We hope the wide range of activities will inspire them to try something new and find passions that will stay with them for life. It’s a perfect example of how we aim to support and empower the youth in our community.”