A new youth club has opened in Cockerton, Darlington, with £3,000 funding from Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen, aiming to reduce anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the area.
The club, run by the YMCA and match funded by Love Cockerton, is based at Cockerton Methodist Church on Cockerton Green. It provides young people with a safe place to socialise, play games, and take part in activities, with the goal of reducing ASB and protecting residents from becoming victims.
Part of a wider approach
The initiative is part of a collaborative effort involving the Commissioner and the police, using Problem Orientated Policing (POP) Plans to address issues that concern residents and increase fear of crime. Previously, the PCC awarded £11,000 to YMCA Tees Valley for a youth club at The Haven at Aspen House in Darlington, which funded equipment and 18 weeks of free gym sessions at Paradigm Fitness Darlington.
PCC Joy Allen said: "ASB is a serious issue that damages confidence, communities and quality of life. Over the past year, Cockerton has seen a significant rise in youth-related ASB, and enforcement alone is not the answer. We cannot allow these problems to continue and cause further harm.
"This project reflects my prevention-first approach, providing a practical solution in the town centre. By giving young people positive opportunities and activities, we can help steer them away from nuisance behaviour and towards brighter futures."
Activities and referrals
Around 20 young people attend the club each night, with numbers expected to grow. Activities include darts and pool tournaments, PlayStation and Xbox competitions, movie nights, themed music and food evenings, and puzzles and boardgames. Those already engaged in ASB may be referred by police or local councils to prevent escalation.
Educational sessions cover online safety, ASB awareness, drug misuse, road safety, and the legal consequences of offending. The long-term goal is to expand the model to other areas if successful.
Tackling ASB is a key commitment in the PCC's Police, Crime and Justice Plan, which includes funding positive diversionary activities and working with partners to support those at risk of falling out of education.
