Wrexham youngsters create new mural as part of Safer Streets programme

A new community project is helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and provide opportunities for young people in Wrexham.

Groundwork North Wales, in partnership with North Wales Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner and Wrexham Council, has secured funding
from the Safer Streets initiative to deliver youth engagement sessions with local secondary schools

The programme creates opportunities for young people who have been identified as taking part in anti-social behaviour or who are at risk of doing so.

So far sessions have provided skills, support, opportunities and in-depth discussion around the topic of antisocial behaviour in school and in local communities.

Youngsters who have participated have learnt new skills through participating in various activities as well as achieving various formal qualifications.

One such improvement is the creation of a graffiti mural artwork for the school featuring iconic imaging representative of Wrexham and inspirational wording.

Aaron Jones, senior youth lead explained how it was important for participants to have ownership of the sessions.

Aaron said: “The participants have been fantastic to work with and have given 100% effort in every session.

“The young people have grown considerably in their understanding of how their behaviour affects individuals, their school and their community whilst we have worked with them”.

As well as the school improvements the young people participated in community litter picks and enjoyed practical hands-on woodwork tasks in the workshop at Groundwork North Wales site in Tanyfron.

Tasks included those aimed at improving their physical and intellectual skills, tasks requiring good communication, health and safety considerations, teamwork, and following instruction.

Donna Edwards, assistant headteacher Rhosnesni High School, said: “As far as I am concerned and in speaking to the pupils it has been fantastic.

“They have had the chance to develop new skills, experienced interacting with different adults – Aaron and colleagues – in a different environment and formed good relationships.

“They have experienced different types of work opportunities that are possible and have not given any negative feedback.”