New Wirral project The Sportsmobile will prevent anti-social behaviour

Oct 29 2008 by Sue McCann, Birkenhead News

sports mobile

WIRRAL’S Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Sports Development Unit have launched a new project - the Sportsmobile - aimed at preventing and tackling anti-social behaviour.

The Sportsmobile is equipped with sporting equipment and designed to be deployed into hot-spots to divert young people from anti-social behaviour.

A lighting rig on the roof allows for dark and poorly lit spaces to be floodlit.

At the launch event, a graffiti wall was used to interact with young people, highlighting the consequences of committing graffiti.

Caroline Laing, manager of Wirral’s anti-social behaviour team, said: “While it is only a small minority of young people who engage in anti-social behaviour, there is an issue with some young people congregating in public spaces, sometimes engaging in anti-social behaviour and sometimes just socialising.

“This in itself is often, unfortunately, perceived as being anti-social. This initiative isn’t just about addressing some of these issues but also about positively promoting young people.”

Mike Withy, head of Wirral’s Sports Development Unit, added: “This much needed initiative will allow for the successful Youth Sports Night project to move into areas previously inaccessible due either to a lack of facilities or the ability to light an outdoor area through the winter months.

“Sports instructors will bring a range of sports equipment and work with communities to deliver new activities.”