Offenders volunteer for clean-up

Published: Wednesday, 05 May 2010

A GROUP of offenders have volunteered to clean up two local stretches of towpath in a joint venture with British Waterways.

The group are from Nottinghamshire Probation Trust's Fit for Work project, which helps those sentenced to a community order or released from prison move away from a life of crime by developing physical and mental fitness and learning practical and team working skills.

In the photograph are Waterway Supervisor Simon Gent, of British Waterways (far right) with Steve Hampton, Health and Training Co-ordinator at Nottinghamshire Probation Trust (fourth from the left) with some of the volunteers.

Regular basis

Areas of towpath running from Trent Bridge to Castle Marina on the Nottingham Canal and from Trent Lock to Long Eaton Fire Station on the Erewash Canal have been adopted by the team, who are working on a regular basis to litter pick, remove graffiti and paint locks as well as looking after the general upkeep of the overflows and waterways.

British Waterways will supply work references for Fit for Work volunteers attending a set number of sessions, increasing their chances of gaining and sustaining employment, a vital step in breaking the cycle of reoffending.

Labour resource

Steve Hampton, Health and Training co-ordinator at Nottinghamshire Probation Trust enthused:

"We're really pleased to be involved in this great project which benefits everyone. British Waterways gain a labour resource, the volunteers get invaluable work experience and life skills, and local people have a clean and tidy canal towpath to enjoy!"

Any local businesses interested in offering support for this project should contact Steve Hampton, Health and Training co-ordinator at Nottinghamshire Probation Trust on 07921 937814.