NEWS RELEASES
New mentoring programme a success
5 Februrary 2008
YOUNG people in the Horsham District have been receiving mentorship and advice through a new programme being piloted by Horsham District Council.
The scheme is aimed at young people highlighted by the anti-social behaviour process and is administered by a dedicated team based at Horsham Police station.
Run by Horsham District Council as part of the Horsham District Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, the pilot programme works by linking the youngsters with young adults who are in a position to spend at least three to four concentrated hours a week offering advice and time that may not be available elsewhere.
A mentor will spend anything from 6 to 18 weeks building a positive relationship with the young person engaging with them on neutral territory and participating in positive activity such as pool, bowling or swimming.
Five people have so far used the scheme and feedback has been encouraging.
Mentor Matt Leach who has worked with many young people said:
“The mentoring scheme is a great intervention for young people who are on the verge of entering the criminal justice system.
“I hope that by working with these young people they will learn from my mistakes and experiences particularly with drugs and alcohol.”
Cllr Andrew Baldwin, Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Support at Horsham District Council, added:
“It is hugely important that young people understand that choices they make now can have an impact on the rest of their lives.”
Often after the programme finishes young people will stay in touch with their mentors, who encourage them to maintain good behaviour.
For more information or to find out how to get involved in the mentoring programme please contact Horsham District Council on 01403 215116 or email community.safety@horsham.gov.uk
Ends
Note to editors:
This news releasehas been issued by Horsham District Council as part of the Horsham District Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.
The Horsham District Crime Disorder Reduction Partnership is a statutory partnership of Horsham District Council, Saxon Weald, West Sussex County Council, Sussex Police, Sussex Police Authority, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and West Sussex Primary Care Trust.
The Partnership is charged with reducing levels of crime and disorder in the Horsham District through sustainable solutions; by working with other key public, private and voluntary agencies and the community. More information is available by calling 01403 215116 or email: communitysafety@horsham.gov.uk
CONTACT: Richard Morris, Communications Manager
Email: richard.morris@horsham.gov.uk