Wiltshire youth project works to tackle antisocial behaviour

The youth initiative is partnered with the police to increase police visibility

A youth project is working to tackle antisocial behaviour brought on by the "ripple effect" of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Devizes based Roots & Shoots Youth initiative is held every Friday evening at Green Lane Playing Fields in Wiltshire.

The scheme offers football coaching and activities to help build confidence.

"We're using football as a vehicle to guide them," said coach Benson Miyoba.

Wiltshire Police's PC Sarah Hardwidge said the programme is a great way to bring kids together and teach them life skills.

"I think we're seeing a rise of [antisocial behaviour] in all towns at the moment. I think Covid played a little bit of a part," said Ms Hardwidge.

Partners involved in the initiative include Devizes Neighbourhood Policing Team and Wiltshire Police Early Intervention

Partners involved in the initiative include the Devizes Neighbourhood Policing Team, who want to make police more visible and approachable.

"If I see them over the weekend they all come and chat to me - they're more than happy to engage with us," Ms Hardwick said.

She added that there are not many intervention and engagement schemes in the town due to the closure of youth centres and lack of funding for youth workers.

Steve Dewar says he has seen cuts and changes throughout his time as a youth worker

Having worked in youth services for 25 years, Steve Dewar, from Wiltshire Youth for Christ, said he has seen many changes to statutory services over the years.

He added he is still seeing the ripple effect from the pandemic, which affects young people's social interactions, mental health and physical wellbeing.

"Our young people need enablement to be able to grow from that," he said, explaining that the investment in youth work benefits "every aspect" of the community.

He added: "All the lads here just enjoy having a kick around.

"For some of them it's meeting new people, it's doing that in a positive way and in a team spirit way.

"It's not just an individual thing. They work together, they encourage each other and have a laugh."

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