Commissioner congratulates county’s first Twinning Project graduates

HMP PETERBOROUGH’S first Twinning Project graduates have been awarded an FA Level 1 Coaching qualification as part of a scheme that uses football to tackle reoffending.

The Twinning Project scheme “twins” HMP Peterborough with Peterborough United Football Club. Eligible prisoners have been able to access accredited coaching and employability training to better prepare them for life after their release.

The project has been made possible by a £5K award from the Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston, which has been match funded by The Twinning Project.

“Breaking the cycle of re-offending is key part of my Police and Crime Plan. This project does just that,” Darryl Preston said. “I would like to congratulate the twelve individuals who have graduated today and taken steps to turn their life around. I would also like to thank HMP Peterborough, The Twinning Project and Peterborough United Foundation for taking on this pioneering initiative.”

Former Twinning Project participants from elsewhere in the country have gone on to secure employment with football clubs, local authorities and more.

David Streetley, The Twinning Project Relationship Lead said:

“It’s been brilliant working with this group and seeing them develop from day one.  We have learnt from each other how to deliver safe, fun and engaging football practices and challenged how we communicate, collaborate and make football and life a more positive experience.  Football and sport have the power to change lives and impact positively on other people.”

Darryl Preston was the third Commissioner in the country to bring the project to his county in March of this year.

“I would like to thank David for supporting this Twinning project delivery on the Peterborough United Foundation’s behalf at HMP Peterborough,” Gavin Slater, Community Manager, Peterborough United Foundation added. “Congratulations to all delegates that have completed the course.  It was fantastic to receive some of the feedback on the success of our first cohort.”

The project will support two more cohorts of 16 who are anticipated to complete their training over a year. Both male and female cohorts will be taking part in this project.

” We are delighted to celebrate our first group of graduates from the Twinning Project. It’s great to be involved with this creative initiative, seeing participants develop communication and leadership skills that will support them on their rehabilitative journeys after release. This has been a positive experience for those prisoners who have participated and through football we are helping them find ways to improve their lives for the better,” Wayne Peters, Head of Learning, Skills & Employment HMP Peterborough concluded.