Youth Project Aims To Cut Anti-Social Behaviour

31 July 2013, 06:43 | Updated: 31 July 2013, 10:45

Children as young as 11 are being warned about the dangers of alcohol and drugs in Gosport this summer.

It's part of a project called the Gosport Summer Passport Scheme, aimed at cutting anti-social behaviour.

Gosport Council's running three weeks of activities including rock-climbing, quad biking and dance for 11 to 16-year-olds, alongside sex education and alcohol awareness sessions.

There is also an opportunity for 15 and 16-year-olds to have a go at driving lessons, with a qualified instructor, at St Vincent College. Places are limited and time slots will be allocated on the day.

The scheme is open to young people born between the 1st September 1996 and the 31st August 2001 - and operates during the first three weeks of the holidays on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 12-4pm. All the dates and locations, and information on how to register, can be found here.

Hampshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Hayes is supporting the project. He said:

"If young people have something to do that is constructive and healthy for them, and challenging for them, then they're not going to be tempted to take part in any anti-social behaviour or unlawful activities.

"I would encourage local councils to continue to fund this type of event."

A similar scheme is running in Fareham - click here to find out more about it.

Chairman of the Fareham Community Safety Partnership, Councillor Arthur Mandry said:

"This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to try new activities for free in a safe environment, with so many to choose from there is something to keep everyone entertained during the summer holidays".