A group of six young people who had been taking part in antisocial or low-level criminal behaviour are learning about the consequences of their actions as part of an educational programme.

The teenagers, from Basingstoke and Deane, Hart and Rushmoor, are aged between 13 and 17 years-old and have been referred onto the Challenge and Change course.

The course, organised and run by the Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Partnership* aims to prevent antisocial behaviour and educate people about the consequences their behaviour has on the wider community. The overall objective is to prevent young people continuing into the criminal justice system.

Cllr Robert Tate, Chair of Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Partnership, said: “Our aim, in running this programme, is to reduce antisocial behaviour by encouraging young people, who have been involved in antisocial or criminal behaviour, to be more aware of their behaviour, the consequences of it and how it affects other people. We hope, by examining their actions, working as a team and speaking to offenders already serving time in prison, that the participants will make better choices in future.”

People may be referred onto the course through the local council, police, schools or housing association.

Youngsters will spend time with the police and magistrates, at HMP Winchester talking to current prisoners and with the Hampshire Fire Service, exploring consequences and decision-making.

Made up of four initial sessions, the course will last for 12 weeks, and all of those taking part will receive a qualification for completing the course, accredited by the Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network (ASDAN). Participants will reduce their risk of a criminal record or custody by taking part, and the programme will provide information on volunteering and other ways that people can help others.