How teens can box their way out of a life of crime

The scheme is being ran by Northumbria Police along with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service to teach youngsters on Wearside about the impact of their behaviour.

‘Knuckle down – the Pathway to Success’ comes after funding was given from England Boxing with the aim to combine discussions about the impact of anti-social behaviour with boxing training sessions at Sunderland Community Hub.

It is hoped that the sessions will help educate secondary school students between the ages of 11 and 16 about a range of problems including knife crime and starting fires deliberately. The programme will also give young people on Wearside a chance to voice their opinions and issues openly to the police.

Throughout the sessions, the participants can improve their physical fitness as well as developing life skills such as discipline, confidence and respect.

From left, Fire Station Manager Shaun Makin, firefighter Preston Brown and PCSO Allan Postings.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, praised the scheme, saying: “There are young people whose lives are falling apart and they turn to the wrong crowd and activities to help them through tough times. Schemes like this provide an alternative - somewhere to go with opportunity, routine and role models – it can make all the difference. It’s about improving lives to prevent crime.”

Shaun Makin, Sunderland Community Fire Station Manager added: “Sport is a powerful tool for diverting young people away from anti-social behaviour and showing them that by working hard, they can achieve success in all aspects of their lives.”

The scheme will run initially for eight weeks and is hoped to make a difference throughout the city.