Torfaen Young People's Club Benefits from Commissioner's Fund

Local CSO Pauline Lohfink applied for the funding as, through her involvement with the club, she had been working with six girls from the gypsy traveller community who wanted to hold a tea party and perform traditional dances for the elderly residents at local homes.

The funding was used to provide refreshments, served by the youngsters, and also to update the girl's dance outfits. The Gwent Police Property Fund is raised from the sale of property and cash seized from criminals, as well as the disposal of unclaimed lost property.

During February the Commissioner invited bids from groups and organisations from across Gwent, and a total of 67 bids were received. Following a rigorous process of assessing each bid on its merits a total of 32 organisations or groups have been notified that their bid has been successful.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Ian Johnston, said: "I'm delighted that money from the Property Fund is being made available to worthwhile causes like this one which helps to benefit the wider community. With the Police, other agencies, voluntary groups and other individuals working together in the community I am confident that we can help provide diversionary events, build relationships, reduce crime and anti social behaviour as well as improving people's confidence in the Police."

Local CSO Pauline Lohfink helps run the project: "The Never Never Club is a great community initiative that also serves to raise awareness of local issues of anti social behaviour and diversity. We have now put together a series of visits that means that the girls can express themselves through positive means and also to benefit the wider community by visiting the residential homes. The children have gained confidence in themselves and their culture which is fantastic."