YOUNGSTERS WHO “GET HOOKED ON FISHING”; ARE LESS LIKELY TO COMMIT ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

Over the past few months the “Get Hooked on Fishing (GHOF)” Project has gone from strength to strength.

The Project is one of the most powerful young person’s development programmes in the region.

The past few months have seen the project the busiest ever with over 300 young people and families attending sessions. The project has also supported Operation Python, a Humberside Police initiative to tackle youth crime.

The programme now has a 16 year old apprentice who was on the verge of receiving an ASBO. Since his employment his ABC and potential ASBO have been withdrawn.

Mark Fenty, GHOF coordinator said “It is still early days in his apprenticeship, but the signs for him and his long term future are much brighter and more positive than ever, which demonstrates the power of the Get Hooked on Fishing Project.”

Mark adds “Personally my work colleagues within North East Lincolnshire Council and at Safer and Stronger Communities have been incredibly supportive of me and GHOF. One person however who deserves to be singled out is PC Gary Starkie. Gary is the Chairman of the GHOF Management Board and the main driver who brought the programme to the North East Lincolnshire in 2007.”

RING IN THE CHANGES TO ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR; JUST CALL NELC ON 01472 326101

Launch of a reporting number for incidents anti-social behaviour; telephone: 01472 326101.

People with concerns about anti-social behaviour can now dial their way towards a safe and stronger community.

North East Lincolnshire Council launched an ASB reporting line number to make it easier for the community to report none urgent incidents of anti-social behaviour.

The line, 01472 326101, has been launched on the eve of the summer school holidays, historically a time that sees a rise in negative behaviour.

It went live on Monday, July 13, at 8am.

Councillor Steve Beasant, NELC’s portfolio holder for community safety and public protection, said: “The launch of the reporting line shows the partnership approach we take within North East Lincolnshire to deal with all forms of anti-social behaviour.

“Residents have told us they like easier ways of reporting anti-social behaviour and the information we receive from the public will help us to target our resources.

“It will combine with the excellent programme of summer events and diversionary activities that will get our young people involved in worthwhile and educational activities.”

The summer programme is linked to £20,000 of Government money given to North East Lincolnshire Council to curb illegal street drinking and the sale of intoxicants to minors either directly or through an adult buying it on their behalf.

People caught are likely to find themselves subject to an acceptable behaviour contract and their parents invited to attend parenting classes.

Andrew Milner, the council’s executive director for community services, said: “This reporting line does not replace any other reporting mechanism open to the public and is designed to provide support where necessary to the victims of anti-social behaviour through the Victim Support Service and a provide a response within 24 hours of the call being received.

“It is another important part of our partnership response to cut anti-social behaviour and effect a safer and stronger North East Lincolnshire.”