YOUNGSTERS who have been bullied or mugged are being taught martial arts by the police to avoid becoming repeat’ victims of crime. Officers believe the 10-week course in Judo they’re running at an East London leisure centre will give the kids self-defence skills and boost their confidence
YOUNGSTERS who have been bullied or mugged are being taught martial arts by the police to avoid becoming repeat’ victims of crime.
Officers believe the 10-week course in Judo they’re running at an East London leisure centre will give the kids self-defence skills and boost their confidence.
Most have been victims of bullying or street robbery, including some who have been happy-slapped,’ a cruel fad in which a they are attacked by tormentors who record their ordeal on mobile phone cameras.
BLACK BELT
The course to help improve confidence and self-esteem has been organised by black belt cop Andy Newman with the British Judo Association and backed by East London NHS Foundation Trust.
“Being a victim of crime can affect a person’s quality of life,” said Pol Sgt Newman. “It can have a drastic impact on their self-esteem and confidence.
“This course is helping them grow in self confidence so they don’t emit signals of fear in the street and become repeat victims of crime.”
So far, 20 youngsters have completed the course at Lower Clapton’s Kings Hall leisure centre. Organizers hope soon to roll the scheme out across the rest of London.
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