PCC sees success of youth engagement project

A youth-engagement programme aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour on Portsmouth seafront has already proved a success this summer.

The Waterfront Restorative Approaches Partnership (WRAP) has engaged with over 100 young people so far.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, saw first-hand the work of the partnership during a recent visit on-board a 72ft Challenger yacht.

The WRAP supports those who have been involved in ASB or struggling with their mental health to take part in open sea voyages which can often be life-changing experiences that build confidence, teamwork, values and a sense of direction for the future.

During her visit with the Tall Ships Youth Trust, the Police Commissioner spoke to some of the youngsters involved.

“The WRAP programme is a great example of a coordinated, multi-agency response to the problem of anti-social behaviour.

“Services like these are fabulous and a huge asset in helping young people to engage safely and positively in our communities.

“Some of those I’ve spoken with have told me their summer holidays would normally consist of wandering the streets or playing computers games all day.

“Many have behavioural issues and struggle in a traditional classroom setting and often get into trouble.

“Here, they are all equal and flourish in an environment where they get to work as a team and get the chance to achieve something tangible that gets them ready for adulthood.”

The partnership’s made up of a number of youth organisations including the Portsmouth Mediation Service, Motiv8, Urbond, Pompey in the Community, Andrew Simpson Centre and the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

Many have received funding from the Police Commissioner including the Portsmouth Mediation Service which received £15,000 in June to pay for two outreach workers to expand the work of the WRAP.

Peter’s 15-year-old step-son has been receiving support from Urbond.

“I’ve really seen him come out of himself this summer. He’s had a really tough childhood.

“Everyone’s got their own background and story and without these services, he’d be lost.

“Projects like this are priceless to us and are really helping his development.”

The Police Commissioner added: “What I’ve seen here highlights the continued good work of the WRAP to build and develop a successful outreach and engagement programme with young people alongside Operation Nautical, a dedicated policing response to ASB in hotspot areas in Portsmouth.

“Through initiatives like WRAP, Portsmouth is showing that communities can work together to ensure the waterfront remains a safe and vibrant place for everyone.”