A new initiative is using grassroots rugby to steer young people away from crime and violence.
Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) anti-gang unit has teamed up with a national children's charity to provide an 'engaging diversionary activity' for those at risk of harm.
The partnership with the star scheme aims to offer inspirational role models and a supportive community to help young people build a positive future.
The star scheme works directly with local rugby clubs to create a positive environment that supports the wellbeing of young people, celebrates their achievements, and empowers them to make better life choices.
Earlier this year, a young male of mixed English and Italian heritage, who was 'on the periphery of crime and violence', was signposted to the scheme by DC William Smith, a dedicated rugby enthusiast and key driver of the initiative within GMP.
With the support and guidance from the programme, the young man has begun to 'transform' his life in the last few weeks and has developed a passion for following and playing rugby, often alongside DC Smith.
To celebrate his achievement, the charity, with help from DC Smith, has arranged a once-in-a-lifetime experience: to meet the England and Italy international rugby teams at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday, March 9, ahead of their Six Nations fixture.
DC Smith from GMP said: "Working alongside star* scheme, we want the initiative to create safer communities by reducing levels of crime and violence, increase social action, and improve the wellbeing of young people.
"We know that one of the best ways of preventing crime and anti-social behaviour amongst young people is early intervention and providing a positive environment and diversionary activities which enable them to develop and express themselves."
Training session facilitated by star scheme (Image: Supplied)
Nicholas Garrick, director of strategy and research of the star* scheme, said: "We are excited about this partnership and the transformative potential it holds.
"Rugby embodies teamwork, discipline, and resilience - values that resonate deeply with the young people we support.
"By offering them this extraordinary experience, we hope to inspire them to overcome challenges and embrace new possibilities."
Federazione Italiana Rugby president Andrea Duodo said: "Rugby truly has the ability to change lives and all of us at Federazione Italiana Rugby strongly believe in the game’s core values as a great tool for positively forging characters.
"It was an obvious decision for us when star* scheme got in touch, to invite this young Anglo-Italian to our Captain’s Run and enable him to experience the unparalleled atmosphere of international rugby, which we are sure will inspire him and encourage him to continue achieving his best in life.”
Steve Grainger, RFU Executive Director of Rugby Development said: “One of the unique abilities of rugby is to provide not only a healthy sporting environment for individuals, but also surround them with a supportive and family-like community.
"It's great to see the work the star* scheme have already done with RFU clubs in England, and we look forward to seeing them broaden the opportunities of even more young people in this country.”
