Recently youths from both the Longstone GAA Club and Ballyhornan Youth Centre took part in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Policing & Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Summer Diversionary Programme.

The free of charge Programme ran every Friday night throughout July and August and provided young people between 12-16 years with two hours of bubble football. The local Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Magnet Youth Advice Centre attended to offer advice on issues such as internet safety, cyberbullying, anti-social behaviour and the effects of drug and alcohol abuse.

Chairman of the PCSP, Councillor Mickey Larkin, stated “This is the first of many community safety programmes being rolled out throughout the year by the PCSP Section. During the summer months, in particular the weekends, there is an increase in anti-social behaviour. This excellent programme helps to tackle this issue by enabling up to 400 young people throughout the district, to not only avail of a fun activity, but to receive some valuable information on safety issues. It also provides a great opportunity for our youth to engage with and get to know their local Policing Team.”

Additional information or enquiries regarding this Programme is available from the PCSP team on 028 4461 0857.

Longstone GAA Club and Ballyhornan Youth Centre were just one of several groups to take part in Newry, Mourne and Down Policing & Community Safety Partnership's (PCSP) Summer Diversionary Programme. Cllr Mickey Larkin, was present after his recent appointment as PCSP Chair. Also pictured is Graham Offor (Neighbourhood Policing Team) and Lizzie Smyth (Magnet Youth Centre).