Ipswich Town youth violence scheme is launched

The programme DIVERT aims to reduce reoffending and improve employability

A football club's charity foundation has partnered with police to address serious violence among teenagers.

DIVERT, a partnership between the Ipswich Town Foundation and Suffolk Police, aims to reduce reoffending and improve employability.

The sessions will include physical activity, talks about knife and drug crime and CV writing.

The police and crime commissioner for Suffolk said it put young people "on the right path to be a good citizen".

"I have seen first-hand the positive impact that being involved in sport has on young people," said Conservative Tim Passmore.

"The project offers young people on the periphery or vulnerable to gang activity, a positive alternative to crime and violence."

DIVERT will include workshops on knife crime and CV writing, as well as an hour of physical activity

Mr Passmore added: "It gives them an opportunity to raise aspirations, develop tangible skills, develop confidence and increase employability."

Foundation director Dan Palfrey said: "We've already seen in the first few weeks of delivery the impact this programme is having on these young people."

Data from Suffolk Constabulary has shown an increase in the number of violence and sexual offences being reported in the Ipswich Central neighbourhood, between December 2019 and November 2022.

Follow East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email [e-mail] or WhatsApp [phone]