Youngsters who have committed anti-social behaviour muck in to make amends
Youngsters who have committed anti-social behaviour are being helped to change their ways - while also giving something positive back to the community - as part of a restorative justice scheme.
The scheme is helping turn around the lives of youngsters in Tipton. Dozens of young people have been helped since it was launched by police officers last year.
They take part in voluntary work such as painting and gardening to give back to the community and as a form of punishment.
And officers hope the project can grow to help more young people in the area.
PC John Tranter, who started the project around 12 months ago, said: "I set up the project to help kids who are causing anti-social behaviour - that is low level and minor ASB, not serious stuff.
"The whole point of it is to stop them re-offending.
"What I decided to do was rather than the kids being given a reprimand, they can give something back, so I thought let's get them working and grafting in the area that they are misbehaving in.
"Whilst they are working it gives me the opportunity to talk to them and tell them about the consequences of their behaviour.
"As a beat officer, obviously I get to know these kids over the years. When they have done this project they are better to engage with. The community feedback is really good, they love it!"
Consent is needed from parents before youngsters are allowed to take part.
The latest project saw youngsters paint railings and plant new shrubs in a residential neighbourhood in Great Bridge.
Among those taking part was 14-year-old Luke Adams and Billy George Cartwright, also 14, who had been involved in a low-level argument.
Asked about what he thought of the work, Luke said: "It is good because it is keeping me occupied and helping the area. I have enjoyed this activity and painting the most."
Billy added: "I feel good about doing it because it is supporting the community."
PC Tranter said the scheme has seen a lot of projects completed throughout the year, including a youth centre, a park and a bowling green.
Councillors and police fund the protective equipment used as part of the scheme.
Councillor Joanne Hadley said: "The kids are doing so well, the scheme is turning them around.
"The idea is working in partnership and the whole community coming together.
"The kids work well with police and respect police.
"What they have done to the railings in Great Bridge is brilliant," she said.
