Boxing classes, the chance to train like a firefighter and educational first aid courses are just some of the schemes being delivered to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in Barking and Dagenham.
There will also be interactive performance workshops in schools to highlight and discuss how local communities are impacted by illegal activities.
The measures are a result of Barking and Dagenham Safer Neighbourhood Board securing £31,933 funding from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC).
Funding will also be used to increase the number of Neighbourhood Watch groups across the borough.
The Board hope the five schemes, which are funded until March 2020 and will each receive £5,000, will help steer young people away from crime and reduce the risk of reoffending.
Steve Thompson, chair of the Barking and Dagenham Safer Neighbourhood Board, said: “We are pleased to secure this funding for these important projects that will help us reach people in our borough in a variety of different ways.
“We remain committed to tackling crime and making sure everyone feels safe in Barking and Dagenham.”
Barking and Dagenham Safer Neighbourhood Board is made up of representatives from a range of organisations including Barking and Dagenham Council, the Met Police, and Victim Support.
Not about rewarding bad behaviour
Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: “These intervention programmes offer a great opportunity for young people involved, or at risk of being involved in criminal activity, to get the help and support they need to turn their lives around.
“This isn’t about rewarding bad behaviour, but about showing these youngsters they can play a part in making their community better and focus their energy in a positive way.”
One of the schemes to successfully receive funding is Right Box, a 12-week boxing programme that offers young adults tailored training plans alongside mentoring sessions that discuss the impacts of crime on communities and reduce levels of reoffending.
Dan O’Sullivan, coach and secretary of Right Box, said: “We offer youngsters a chance to not only progress in the ring, but to earn nationally recognised qualifications that can help them in their careers.
“Boxing is more than just mindless fighting. It requires discipline, the ability to see the bigger picture, and provides a purpose that can lead to a pathway that takes people away from anti-social behaviour.”
Candidates can only be accepted by referral from partner organisations and up to 70 people will have the chance to take part in the scheme, which is run by the Met Police in partnership with the Youth Offending Service Gangs Unit and schools.