A new youth engagement initiative led by PC Simon Keeting, Rhyl Community Engagement Officer, was successfully launched last week, offering young people a positive and structured activity during the summer period.
Working in partnership with local charity Brighter Futures, and with contributions from nearby fishing tackle shops and businesses, PC Keeting has established a youth fishing club designed to promote wellbeing, confidence and positive diversionary activity.
The first session took place on the beach, where participants received guidance on safe fishing practices, equipment use and respect for the coastal environment. Thanks to funding secured for essential equipment, along with generous donations from local partners, each young person was able to take part fully in the session.
The group enjoyed favourable conditions for their first outing, with several young people successfully catching fish — proudly displaying their achievements in photographs captured on the day. For many, it was their first experience of fishing, providing an opportunity to learn new skills, build friendships and engage in a constructive outdoor activity.
This is a side of community policing that often goes unseen: bringing together local organisations, businesses and volunteers to create meaningful opportunities for young people. The support received from partners has been instrumental in enabling the project to begin, and further sessions are planned throughout the summer, whilst when the weather gets colder, skills such as equipment management, knots and bait skills will be learned indoors.
PC Keeting said: “This project is about giving young people a safe, positive and enjoyable experience during the holidays and beyond.
“The enthusiasm shown at the first session was fantastic, and we are grateful to all the organisations and businesses who have helped make this possible, especially the staff at Brighter Futures, Tony at Rigs n Rods who donated kit, and Anglesey Bait Centre who also supported the project.
“You’ve helped make a real difference, and judging by those proud smiles, this is only the beginning.”
