News

Leap’s training leads to a 53% reduction in antisocial behaviour

Monday 27th September 2010

As the Government announces its commitment to finding better ways to reduce anti-social behaviour, Leap’s work with Enfield Police shows that alternative solutions can provide positive results. Reports of anti-social behaviour on the Four Hills estate in Enfield, London fell by 53% during a six-month Leap project.

The HMIC report reconfirms that ASBO’s simply don’t work as a deterrent in many communities. More than half are breached, and the police are using them less. The HMIC reports that results are achieved when neighbourhood policing teams are provided with the right tools and resources to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Working in partnership with Enfield Police and Enfield youth service, Leap worked with young people, police representatives and youth workers to reduce anti-social behaviour and gang-related conflict in the neighbourhood.
20 young people between the ages of 10 & 22 received six sessions designed to address the consequences of their behaviour and to allow them to make more informed choices in relation to it. In addition, weekly football sessions were held which allowed the work to continue in an informal setting.
The local council has now reopened the youth club and earmarked funds for the project to be replicated on another local estate.
Kate Kelly, of the Enfield Police anti-social behaviour team, who received training from Leap to learn techniques to challenge gang culture, says that as a result of the training “Young people took more pride; you could see how their attitudes changed. One found a job, two went on to college, and another has had his dyslexia diagnosed and is getting the right support. Others are more motivated and getting involved with football coaching…”
Leap works with young people to enable them to manage and reduce the conflict in their lives and empower them to become positive role models in their communities. By using a dual approach through training young people and providing professional development training for adult practitioners, Leap ensures that its work is providing a lasting legacy in communities across the UK.
To achieve similar results in your area, contact Amanda Nelmes