Nacro says football helps reduce crime

Sport can help combat crime in communities, a
joint Nacro and Football Foundation conference heard last week.

Reported crime rates decreased by
77 per cent in Barking and Dagenham, east London where a
football-based project has been operating, according to chairperson
of Sport England and Football Foundation board member, Trevor
Brooking.

Head
of youth activities at Nacro, Chris Dare, said the charity was able
to reach more than 1,000 young people each week in high crime areas
of England and Wales, as a result of its partnership with the
Football Foundation. “Tackling crime is not just an issue for
police and courts, but for the whole of the community. Sport can
foster self-discipline and self-worth and help youngsters stay away
from trouble,” Dare said.