A programme funded through confiscated criminal assets aims to help more than 200 young people to “create positive social change” through sport.
The ‘Stay Onside’ community engagement programme has received more than £58,000 over three years from the Assets Recovery Community Scheme.
The scheme uses money received from the payment of confiscation orders, following a conviction, to fund community projects across the north.
‘Stay Onside’ is delivered by the Irish Football Association (IFA) Foundation, the charitable arm of the north’s soccer ruling body, in collaboration with the PSNI, Prison Service, Probation Board, Youth Justice Agency and a range of other organisations.
Justice Minister Naomi Long recently visited the IFA Foundation at Belfast’s Windsor Park to meet those involved in delivering and participating in the programme.
The minister said sport played a “vital role in our society and our lives”.
“Through sport, we can develop social skills, self-confidence, and improve our well-being,” she said.
“That is why it is vitally important that projects such as ‘Stay Onside’ community engagement programme’ are available to young people, particularly those at risk of encountering the justice system.
“I hope those who are just starting this course find it useful in building confidence and helping them understand the dangers that they might face as, unfortunately there are paramilitaries and criminals who take advantage of young people.”
IFA president Conrad Kirkwood said the Department of Justice programme’ uses the power of football to provide vulnerable or hard to reach young people with the tools and skills that will help to deter them from becoming involved in criminality.
“It also supports young people in identifying and making positive life choices,” he said.
“We firmly believe this important project can contribute to creating a society where citizens and communities feel safe and confident.”
