Following the success of a pilot scheme with youngsters in Caerphilly last spring, which provided rugby skills and activities in a bid to address issues of social exclusion and prevent crime, the second project of its kind has now been launched, this time in Blaenau Gwent.
The nine-week project, run by the Welsh Rugby Union in conjunction with the Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly Youth Offending Team (YOT), will give another group of young people a range of rugby skills and activities in a bid to combat issues of social exclusion, prevent crime and anti-social behaviour and to motivate the youngsters into becoming positive role models to other young people.
The scheme is not solely aimed at youngsters who have committed offences – many of the young people taking part are involved with the YOT’s Youth Inclusion and Support Panel or Promise Project which concentrates on preventing antisocial behaviour.
After assessing the success of the pilot project, the Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly Youth Offending Team firmly believes this type of project can potentially steer youngsters away from anti-social behaviour and crime and towards positive leisure and recreational activities.
Of the 16 young people who started the pilot project, ten attended regularly and six completed the course, receiving certificates and rugby jerseys. Four members of the group are still playing local rugby at some level and one youngster is now playing for his school, club and district. Six young people used the course as part of a Duke of Edinburgh bronze award and four have been identified as being suitable for undertaking the TAG leaders course which will be offered to them next year.
WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said, “The WRU recognises that rugby in Wales holds a unique position within our communities and is keen to use this role on various fronts. This project has proved it can engage hard-to-reach teenagers in sport – and through sport, encourage them to become active members of their communities.”
Youth Offending Team Service Manager Ron Boden said, “We are confident that this second programme will again provide young people the opportunity to be motivated by those who have excelled in sport and who have proudly represented their community and even country.
“All young people possess talents which are often untapped through lack of encouragement and motivation, this is one way for young people to discover their own potential and channel their energy in a rewarding way. Not only will this be of benefit to them but also the wider community as new acquaintances are made with others who use their recreational time productively. Who knows, this programme may inspire a young person to achieve great things.”
Blaenau Gwent Council’s Corporate Director Community Services Lynn Phillips said, “The Council runs a range of sports and arts initiatives that motivate young people and benefit local communities.
“We are proud of Blaenau Gwent’s strong tradition of rugby and, in partnership with the WRU, we are organising a development programme to encourage more young people take part in the sport. Even in its early stages, the scheme is showing signs of great success with the Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly YOT building on the achievements of the pilot scheme.”
During the course of this project, which is based at Nantyglo Leisure Centre, Welsh Rugby Union community development officers and community coaches will provide a group of 11 to 18-year-olds with rugby skills sessions covering ball skills, speed, agility and evasion, and sports and lifestyle education to include advice on nutrition, conditioning and drugs and alcohol.
The benefits of the scheme include improved health, lifestyle and self esteem for the participants along with leadership skills, discipline, and a sense of identity.
