Acis unveils cracking youth project

Published by Tim Steele for Acis Group Ltd in Housing and also in Communities, Education

An innovative diversionary project for local youths is being launched in the run up to bonfire night. The Firecracker initiative is being headed up by Gainsborough based housing association Acis Group to get youths off the streets and get them involved in fun activities in a safe environment.

Firecracker, now in its third year, aims to tackle the issues of increased crime and anti-social behaviour during this period by engaging with youngsters.

Firecracker will be held every Friday for five weeks, from 5 October to 2 November between 5pm and 7pm. Up to 40 youths aged between 11 and 16 can be accommodated during each session, which will be held at the Park Springs Community Centre in Gainsborough.

Clair Smith, Senior ASB Officer for Acis, said:

“The success of Firecracker during its first two years was fantastic and we are delighted to be hosting another Firecracker event. As ever, the latest Firecracker promises to be bigger and better than the last. We have a whole range of activities on offer and some great partners involved.”

Firecracker will be offering youngsters the chance to participate in multi sports activities each week, as well as a variety of other activities such as police ‘CSI’ style scenario set ups, t-shirt printing, nail art, bracelet making and more. They’ll also get a free hot meal and a drink.

Firecracker is a partnership scheme developed by Acis in conjunction with West Lindsey District Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Positive Futures, Image Skool, McDonalds, and Lincolnshire Police and Fire Services.

Clair added:

“It is testament to those involved with Firecracker that we are once again able to offer this series of events for free. The initiative aims to benefit the whole community by providing a positive outlet for local youngsters and helping to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.”