Ford launches Summer Splash scheme

3.23.00pm GMT Wed 14th Jul 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford has today launched a summer scheme aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour.

Summer Splash runs across Northern Ireland in July and August for up to 6000 young people. It aims to divert young people away from acting in an anti-social way by providing them with a more positive and constructive way to use their time.

The scheme receives £200,000 funding from the Department of Justice and offers activities such as sports and dance, arts and crafts, cooking sessions and personal development citizenship programmes.

Launching this year's Summer Splash at the Greystone Estate in Antrim, David Ford said: "By providing young people with constructive, fun and interesting activities throughout the summer months we can reduce the risk of them being involved in anti-social behaviour.

"Although I appreciate that for the vast majority the risk is low, we must invest in our young people and do all we can to reduce the levels of anti-social behaviour in our society.

"As well as having fun and learning new skills, young people throughout Northern Ireland will have the opportunity to meet new friends and undertake activities that will benefit the communities in which they live."

Participants from each project in the scheme will deliver an initiative that gives something back to the wider community, for example: beach clean up, tidying pensioners' gardens, litter pick, and assisting at community events.

The Minister concluded, "I would like to thank Community Safety Partnerships across Northern Ireland who have worked hard to pull together an exciting programme of activities for teenagers in their areas.

"I would actively encourage everyone who has the opportunity to take part to get involved and I hope you have a fun and safe summer."