Yorkshire Sport Foundation are aiming to reduce anti-social behaviour and crime in South Yorkshire with a new fund supported by the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dr Alan Billings.

The ‘Sport for Change’ fund is inviting sports clubs or organisations to apply for grants of up to £1,000 to get 11-18 year olds taking part in sporting activities during the school summer holidays.

Statistics provided by South Yorkshire Police show a peak in various types of anti-social behaviour including street drinking and nuisance behaviour during the school break in July and August.

Similar projects such as the award-winning SportFX South Yorkshire, also supported by the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, has helped reduce anti-social behaviour.

Tackling spikes in anti-social behaviour around the summer holidays remains an issue.  It is hoped that this can be addressed by providing more engaging activities for young people to take part in.

Nigel Harrison, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Sport Foundation, commented: “We know the positive impact sport can make on people’s lives and the communities they live in.  The Sport for Change fund will help target areas in South Yorkshire where there are issues with anti-social behaviour.

“We’re delighted to be working with both the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue to get more young people using their time positively during the summer holidays.

“This funding is aimed at providing young people with activities throughout the summer break,” said Dr. Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

“Long days with no school can often mean there is very little to do for those who like to stay busy and active.  The initiative is targeted at organisations providing fun and healthy activities that will also keep young people out of any mischief.

“I would encourage any organisations from Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and Sheffield providing activities, or who are looking to set up targeted activities in their area to apply.”

For further information and to find out how to apply visit www.yorkshiresport.org/sportforchange or call 0330 2020 280.