Fleetwood kids shine in 'military inspired' outdoor Commando Intervention Scheme
“I understand first-hand how easily young people can become involved in behaviours that harm both themselves and their communities.”
Young people in Fleetwood were given Royal Marine style activities as part of a fun programme designed to build new skills.
Fleetwood Police partnered with former Royal Marine commando, David Fairbrother, who is from Fleetwood, to host five individual sessions over the summer holidays to the same group of young people aged 10-13yrs.
The Commando Intervention Scheme is an initiative run by Commando Experiences and Commando Rugby School Ltd offering outdoor education to those at risk of anti-social behaviour, offending, and in some cases, school exclusion.
David Fairbrother said: “Having grown up in Fleetwood myself and experienced the consequences of poor decision-making and association with the wrong peer groups, I understand first-hand how easily young people can become involved in behaviours that harm both themselves and their communities.
"My own life changed when I joined the Royal Marines, where I developed discipline, resilience, responsibility and a sense of belonging.
“These experiences now form the foundation of the Commando Intervention Scheme, which uses military-inspired challenges and mentoring to help young people realise their potential and make positive choices."
Through a combination of physical challenges, problem-solving activities, leadership exercises and reflective discussions, they were encouraged to examine their behaviour, understand the consequences of their actions and develop the confidence and self-belief needed to make positive changes.
The programme focuses on resilience, teamwork, accountability, leadership and respect, all of which are key protective factors against crime and anti-social behaviour.
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PCSO Lizzy Bradley, from Fleetwood’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "It has been fantastic to work to deliver a range of activities for local young people.
“The scheme is focused on helping participants develop new skills, and it has been incredibly rewarding to see their confidence grow throughout the sessions.
"Through the scheme, we hope to steer young people away from anti-social behaviour and criminality by demonstrating the positive opportunities available to them.
“We want participants to understand that these opportunities can be achieved by embracing the Commando Ethos, which is at the heart of everything the scheme aims to instil."