Money seized from criminals helping to fight anti-social behaviour in Cwmbran

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Jeff Cuthbert, has granted funding to the Cwmbran Centre for Young People to help tackle anti-social behaviour in Cwmbran town centre.

The funding, which comes from the Proceeds of Crime Act, covers the employment of up to four youth workers per evening and allows the centre to open its doors to young people five nights a week.

Young people are given the opportunity to take part in a wide range of social activities and are offered help and support with education and training.

Up to 100 people have been attending the centre each evening since the new opening hours started in January.

Jeff Cuthbert said: “The Cwmbran Centre for Young People is ideally placed to offer young people a safe and secure place to go in the town centre where they can spend time with their friends and access a whole range of support that will help them with their education or employment.

“It offers them a positive alternative to becoming involved with crime and antisocial behaviour, while also ensuring that some of the most vulnerable people in our community are looked after.”

Centre user Anna Grey said: “I didn’t like handing out on the streets as I didn’t feel safe. This is a safe environment and I like making friends and trying new activities.”

Joanne Phillis, Centre Manager, said: “The funding from the OPPC has been amazing for us. It has enabled us to get the centre back open in the evenings and although it is still early days we are getting up to 100 young people through the doors every day.

“We give them the opportunity to socialise, take part in activities, and make new friends in a safe, healthy environment where they can get support for anything they may need.”

For details on funding available from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office visit www.gwent.pcc.police.uk