Broadwater Farm kids learn the dangers of drug abuse

Thursday 12 January 2012

 

Kids from Broadwater Farm estate were offered  some important life lessons from a speech on the dangers of drugs and knife crime as part of their StreetChance session last Tuesday (10th January). Ex-addict and gang member turned drug and crime mentor Paul Hannaford told the group the story of his battle with drug addiction, how he turned his life around and offered some poignant advice to avoid the path he took.

After the talk a cricket session took place with StreetChance matches and kids had the chance to speak to Paul individually. He also directed kids to his website where they can find out more information.

Speaking at the session Paul said:

“I’ve given the kids a talk about my past which is drugs, knife crime and let them know about the consequences and dangers which is addictions, prison, gangs and stabbing. It’s a shock to them but it gives them something to think about. I’ve been there, I’m an ex gang member, an ex heroin addict. I know that what I do works. If I can change the mind of just one child here then my works done. Every kid has come up to me afterwards , wanting to talk to me. It creates the topic for the parents at home to discuss. 

“Tonight, we’ve got 25 kids willing to come along and participate in a sport they enjoy. They are not on the street, they’re not in a gang, they’re not out there smoking weed. They are in a safe environment, they’ve been educated this afternoon. What StreetChance does is amazing. Bottom-line is: we are saving lives.”

At the event, Tim Mathias, StreetChance Operations Officer for London, said:

“Today’s StreetChance session was a perfect example of the initiative’s commitment to the inner-cities.  Using cricket as a tool of engagement and acting as key role models, the coaches have built a fantastic rapport with the young people they have been working with.  This allows us to deliver useful and often necessary messages in a safe environment.  The youngsters have not only had a great session playing cricket but they have met their local police officer and been educated about the perils of drug abuse.”