Warwickshire News Mine

Community volunteers and workers were the recipients of the first Crimebeat Community Awards in the county. The awards recognise the efforts, energy and commitment of those who work hard to offer positive activities for young people in their community.

Crimebeat, which is funded by the High Sheriff of Warwickshire and supported by the private sector, is managed by Warwickshire County Council’s Positive about Young People scheme. It aims to reduce crime, the fear of crime and create safer communities. The initiative enables and empowers young people to make a real difference, and also encourages them to feel part of the community.

The projects tackle issues such as drugs, theft, graffiti, anti-social behaviour, and give young people the chance to develop or learn new skills. Since the launch in 2003 over £42,000 has been awarded to young people across the county, of which £9000 has been spent by the Project Leaders involving around 800 young people in Warwickshire.

The project leaders often act as role models to the young people, and six from around the county were the first recipients of the awards. They were presented with their awards on 7 February at a special ceremony in Warwick.

The winners are:
Sgt Wayne Cooke, Nuneaton
Laura Knox, Warwickshire College Prince’s Trust Team Leader, Leamington
Matt Mancini, Youth Worker, Warwick district
Tracey Maskell, Positive About Young People worker, Nuneaton
Rose Piercey, Youth Centre manager, Rugby
Jordan Risebrow, teacher, Bedworth

The High Sheriff of Warwickshire, Jeremy Pragnell, said: “Young People at the heart of our communities are actively involved in projects reducing crime and improving community safety. This not only changes their image but does much to promote community cohesion. I am very pleased to support all their efforts.”

Partners in the scheme include the Police, schools, youth clubs, Positive about Young People, PODs, Princes Trust and other organisations involved with young people.

The Crimebeat initiative, which is managed and delivered by Positive about Young People across Warwickshire are continually looking for groups of young people to apply for funding for their community projects. For more information contact Mark Bolton, Warwickshire Crimebeat Coordinator on 02476 754174 or email crimebeat@warwickshire.gov.uk

Link to WCC