Free martial arts for young people in Warwickshire
A new six week course is helping young people in Warwickshire gain awareness of personal safety and self-defence.
Warwickshire County Council’s Youth and Community Service is offering 13 to 19-year-olds the chance to learn the ancient Martial Art of ‘Hapkido’ as part of a programme positively challenging young people’s attitudes towards resolving conflict.
Following a successful pilot at Wellesbourne Youth Centre last month, the six Saturday sessions – run by a qualified instructor with support from youth workers – are set to be rolled out to other areas of the county.
Carla Young, Rural Mobile Youth Worker for Warwickshire County Council’s Youth and Community Service, said: “Young people who took part in our ‘you tell us survey’ last year said they needed something to do on a Friday or Saturday, so we’ve introduced the Martial Art classes as part of that weekend provision.
“The benefits of taking part include helping young people understand how to deal with conflict in a positive way, using the skills they have learnt as a method of self-defence only.
“We also hope it will promote team work while increasing confidence and providing young people with an activity they will continue to take part in.”
If you would like more information or would like to register your interest in taking part, contact Carla Young on 01926 413637.
To find out more about Warwickshire County Council’s Youth and Community Service, visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/youthandcommunity.