11 Cheshire Organisations Awarded Funding to Combat Youth Violence and Inequality

Key Statistics:

• Over 47% of Cheshire’s young people are not meeting recommended physical activity levels (Active Lives Survey, Sport England)
• Where age data was collected, a significant  proportion of robbery, arson and sexual offence victims and perpetrators were in the 10-15 age cohort. (Cheshire Serious Violence Strategy 2023-2029)

Eleven community organisations across Cheshire have been awarded funding to deliver innovative sports programmes aimed at tackling serious youth violence, anti-social behaviour, and inequalities. According to the Sport for Development Coalition, youth crime costs the UK £1.5 billion annually, with three-quarters of prolific offenders starting young. By supporting vulnerable youth through sports, the 11 projects aim to break these cycles and reduce the long-term social and financial costs of crime.

These initiatives are part of a strategic partnership between the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Active Cheshire, and Cheshire Community Foundation, with a combined investment of £189,000. Together, they are using physical activity as a powerful tool to transform lives and foster safer communities. The development of this programme is being supported by Street Games, who bring a wealth of national experience in this space.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price said:

“Sport is more than just games – it’s a lifeline for many of our young people. By investing in these local programmes here in Cheshire, we’re keeping our young people safe by providing them with a positive diversion and environment to flourish in. Not only that, we’re also giving them the skills and confidence to build safer futures away from a life of crime.”

Three examples of the funded projects:

1. Engage – Sale Sharks Foundation (£13,655)

In Widnes, the Sale Sharks Foundation is using rugby to tackle child criminal exploitation and serious youth violence. Their ‘Engage’ project provides 11-14-year-olds with weekly sessions that blend sport with life-skills workshops. Co-designed with young participants and supported by Cheshire Police and local schools, Engage focuses on building resilience and pro-social behaviours.

The Foundation’s statistics are compelling: rugby sessions have reduced absenteeism among participants by 20% and significantly improved their mental well-being. This early intervention strategy is proving to be a game-changer for vulnerable youth in Cheshire.

2. Positive Outcomes Through Boxing – Title Shot Amateur Boxing Club (£23,912)

Boxing is more than just a sport; it’s a second chance at life for the young people involved in Title Shot’s programme in Halton. With tailored one-on-one coaching sessions, the club works closely with at-risk youth referred by social services, police, and health teams. Young people facing challenges like substance misuse or involvement in anti-social behaviour find a safe space to learn discipline, build self-esteem, and develop positive coping mechanisms.

3. Leaders of Tomorrow – Warrington Youth Zone (£19,311)

This programme is equipping disadvantaged young people with leadership skills through sports. Over six months, participants aged 14-18 will engage in personal development activities, earning a Level 1 Sports Leaders Qualification. The project not only helps youth gain formal credentials but also empowers them to take on coaching roles in their communities.

80% of past participants have gone on to volunteer or secure employment in sports. Warrington Youth Zone’s initiative is shaping future community leaders and ensuring that today’s youth have the skills to inspire the next generation.

Mel Sproston, CEO Cheshire Community Foundation, said:

“We are very happy to be partnering with the Office of the Police Crime Commissioner and Active Cheshire on this much-needed initiative. Distributing funds to the most effective local charities is what we do best, so we’re excited to see the impact these projects will have on young lives.”

Mike Watson, Active Cheshire’s CEO, remarked:

“Physical activity is a proven pathway to better mental health and social outcomes. We’re proud to work alongside these fantastic organisations to drive lasting change in our communities.”

About the Partnership

This initiative aligns with the Cheshire Serious Violence Duty Strategy, focusing on early intervention and tackling inequalities. With over 47% of Cheshire’s young people not meeting recommended physical activity levels, this investment aims to promote healthier, safer lifestyles.