HMS Sultan’s parade ground was transformed recently into a racing test track in order to assist children with a record of disruptive and anti-social behaviour taking part in the Cop Car project, which is being delivered at HMS Sultan.
The Driving Futures, Hampshire Police Cop Car project is a 10 week challenge, which sees 11-16 year olds who face difficulties within the normal School system, work as part of a team in order to build a F24 Kit Car.
Bringing the students together with the Police, Royal Navy and the teaching and support staff from the Key Education Centre in Gosport, the project offers youngsters who are currently unable to attend regular schools, the chance to grow in confidence, learn many new skills and to engage with the Police in a positive manner.
The project is part of a new initiative which has been rolled out across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight after a successful pilot of the scheme at Eastleigh Police Station.
It is one of many projects that are being funded throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight by the Police and Crime Commissioner as part of his commitment to reducing reoffending and Anti-Social Behaviour.
Since the project began the Police have seen a reduced amount of disruptive behaviour from the children while they’re out in the community.
With the project nearing its conclusion, the team are preparing to take their car to Goodwood Motor Circuit to compete in a days racing against other teams from across Hampshire Constabulary on the 21st February.
As well as practising driving at speed, the time trial event offered the team an excellent opportunity to practice changing batteries and to make a quick pit stop.
Submarine Air Purification Instructor, Chief Petty Officer Mike Woods has been involved with mentoring the students throughout the project.
He Said: “Working alongside the children has been both challenging and rewarding and its been wonderful to see our young sailors who have been involved in supporting the Police and coaching and mentoring the children.”
“The children seem to have really enjoyed working with engineers in a military environment and many of them are now talking seriously about a career in the field. For many of them it really seems that this project has helped them turn the corner.”
Simon Hayes, Police and Crime Commissioner commented: “Through my commissioning programme, I have invested over £1m in more than 40 youth diversionary and restorative justice projects, and I remain committed to continue to do so to reduce offending and reoffending in our communities.
I am pleased to see how successful this project is. Young people who get involved are working together as a team, learning new skills, and building their confidence.”
