Harjit Singh, of H & Jodie’s Nisa Local in Walsall, West Midlands, has launched Project Phoenix in an effort to reduce antisocial behaviour in his area.

The project, funded by the Walsall Council, has been launched in collaboration with the council and RG8 Security, as well as a number of community stakeholders including Neighbourhood Watch.

Project Phoenix will aim to act as a deterrent for antisocial activity and engage with young people in the community on the challenges they face. It will aim to support them through extracurricular clubs and training organisations.

H & Jodie’s has also accessed the latest round of MADL Heart of the Community funding for the cause, having used £15,000 so far for three local causes, including two boxing clubs. Singh is aiming to obtain a further £250,000 for community causes in the future.

Most police officers not issuing shoplifting penalties

He said: “Project Phoenix is a commitment to our local community to work together to tackle antisocial behaviour and I’m delighted with the combined effort from all the relevant stakeholders in the local area.

“I’m confident this project will have a significant positive impact on the community in Walsall and hopefully start to reduce antisocial behaviour in the local area. I’d like to thank Garry Perry from Walsall Council in particular for all the work which has gone on so far to improve the safety of our streets.”

Kate Carroll, head of charity at Nisa, added: “It’s fantastic to hear that Harjit is implementing his own project for the area close to his Nisa Local store.

“We know how much of a significant impact crime has to local communities so to see a commitment by Harjit and local stakeholders to tackle antisocial behaviour at the route of the problem is good news. Good luck to Project Phoenix.”  

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