Crimebeat is an exciting scheme, launched in 1992, by the then High Sheriff of Derbyshire; David Wigglesworth. It is a registered charity (no. 1086603), which aims to give young people up to the age of 25, an opportunity to combat crime and improve the quality of life in their community. Today, over half of the High Sheriffs in England and Wales have adopted Crimebeat as their chosen charity.

A large number of young people have become involved in these projects working on their own initiative or with support of another organisation. and they in turn have passed the benefits of their good work on to their peers and local communities. Projects are encouraged to develop ideas and turn them in to successful projects, for which Crimebeat can provide as much as £1,000 in funding.

Wherever possible a successful bid will be visited by the High Sheriff or Coordinator to present the award. Every year the Selection Panel choose the best project which is then goes forward to the National competition with the top three being invited down to London to collect their award. This year Wilsthorpe School came third, have a look at the day they had.

Crimebeat works in partnership with a number of local statutory organisations such as the Police, which enables and empowers young people to take ownership of issues relevant to them in their community.

This approach ensures that Crimebeat’s young people are at the core of the Government’s ‘Every Child Matters’ agenda. Their positive contribution through creative ideas and projects helps to establish safer environments. The reward is enjoyment, being healthy, and achieving economic well being.

With your support, young people can continue to fight crime and tackle issues that affect us all. The Crimebeat initiative can be an important tool in combating youth crime and disaffection.