Cash boost to keep kids out of trouble

The cash will fund five educational projects until next April.

The Army Cadet Force based in Orpington should receive the largest share of funding - £25,000.

The force aims to develop young people physically and mentally by improving their self-confidence and teamwork skills.

School-based programme Prison, Me? No Way! will get £10,000 to continue its "interactive learning experiences" in secondary schools which show Year 9 children the dangers of falling into a life of crime.

The initiative was originally funded by the Bromley fire service and after a successful pilot at the Priory School, Tintagel Road, Orpington, the council will take over financing the project.

Meanwhile, the LIFE programme, delivered by the London Fire Brigade, could receive £10,000 as part of the finance package.

The programme uses team-building activities to improve self-esteem in young people who are considered to be at risk of, or already involved in, anti-social behaviour.

Cash would provide funding for 13 places on a five-day course at Bexley fire station.

The Kickz Project, currently delivered in Cray Valley and Bromley Common, is expected to receive £20,000.

This is a joint programme involving the Met Police, the Football Foundation and Crystal Palace FC.

The money would ensure the project continues to provide football coaching three nights a week for young people aged between 11 and 19.

A scheme to help young people gain vocational qualifications at the Field Studies Centre, Grovelands Road, Orpington, will get £20,000.

The money will come from the Youth Diversion Initiative budget announced in March.

Council bosses were expected to approve the funding at a meeting last night.

Portfolio holder for public protection and safety Councillor Colin Bloom said: "The aim is to educate and to keep these kids off the streets.

"It is very exciting news to be working in partnership with other organisations. It also means we can be very cost effective."