Skating leads to slide in crime

Police reported a fall in crime levels when youngsters were skating

Free ice-skating lessons for teenagers in Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, have led to a drop in levels of vandalism and crime, according to a study.

The Get Your Skates on initiative at the Time Capsule in Monklands began as a six-week pilot in October 2007 to tackle gang problems in the area.

It proved so successful that North Lanarkshire Council, with the police and other agencies, extended it.

Research showed a 40% drop in vandalism when youngsters were on the ice.

Police also recorded a drop in reports of youth disorder in the area from 94 to 64 over the past three months.

The free skating sessions, run very Sunday night from 1700 GMT until 1900 GMT, are for young people aged between 13 and 17.

They aim to bring together teenagers from across North Lanarkshire who would not normally mix.

When it launched officers said that the only blades teenagers should ever carry were the ones attached to their skates.

It is encouraging to see so many young people getting the chance to enjoy themselves in an alcohol-free environment

Insp Colin Wylie
Strathclyde Police

Insp Colin Wylie, of Strathclyde Police, said: "Partnership working is a vital tool in addressing local issues and tackling youth disorder in our area.

"It is encouraging to see so many young people getting the chance to enjoy themselves in an alcohol-free environment."

'Off the streets'

He added: "Working with partners like the Time Capsule allows us to engage more easily with local youths, by giving them something fun to fill their free time with and getting them off the streets.

Cllr Jim Logue, convener of learning and leisure services, said: "What is immensely encouraging is that between 300 and 400 young people are getting active and achieving some direction in their lives.

"I hope their experience ice skating encourages them to try other activities."