Work between police and local partners receives national award, Plymouth
A local project supported by Devon & Cornwall Police has received a national award, recognising the work carried out to engage with young people to reduce alcohol related crime and antisocial behaviour (ASB).
Plymouth Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) is a project that seeks to reduce harm associated with underage alcohol use. Their work has reached over over 700 young people.
Involved in the project are a group of local organisations, including Plymouth Community Homes, Youth Outreach teams, and the local neighbourhood police team.
Plymouth CAP have received a Spotlight award, recognising the innovative youth engagement work that has been carried out and the positive difference this has had on the community. The group has been commended for their highly community-centered approach that delivers early intervention and education, fostering sustainable cultural change around alcohol in young communities.
Plymouth CAP were responsible for organising a number of events in Plymouth, including cooking sessions, community events, and school programmes. All activities had a clear focus on encouraging young people to shift away from harmful behaviours like early alcohol use.
Police Sergeant Mark Williams, who has been involved in the project, said: “We’re so grateful to receive this award – it’s fantastic to see our work being recognised for the positive impact we’ve had on the community together as partners.
“We know alcohol can impact a person’s behaviour and their ability to accurately judge a situation, all of which can contribute to issues such as antisocial behaviour (ASB). Our aim is to keep young people safe and encourage safe decisions by highlighting the issues alcohol can cause.
“This has been an excellent example of how local organisations can work together to drive real positive change within communities, replacing disruptive and unhealthy behaviours with positive, constructive and enjoyable activities."
The group also introduced a panel of young people to advise on the events they organise. Sgt Williams continued: “It’s important that we give young people a voice, so they can share what would be beneficial for their wellbeing and their development.
“Our work isn’t about us telling them what they should be doing, but it’s about working with young people to encourage them to make positive choices for themselves.”
CAP is a national organisation that sets up and supports local partnerships that aim to reduce alcohol harm in children and young people, improve their health and well-being and enhance their communities.
The local Plymouth CAP will receive the award at an event hosted by the national CAP team today [2 April 2025]. The ceremony will take place at the Houses of Parliament.
“Plymouth CAP's innovative and community-centered approach has made a significant difference in the lives of young people," said Kate Winstanley, Director of CAP. "Their dedication to early intervention and sustainable cultural change is truly commendable."
For more information about the laws surrounding drugs and alcohol, visit: Drugs and alcohol - Dorset Police and Devon and Cornwall Police working in Partnership (devon-cornwall.police.uk).
More information about the safety initiatives available during the evening and night time in Plymouth is detailed here: News Article - Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
‘Let’s Talk’ toolkits can also be accessed for free online, which aim to help parents and guardians understand more about the challenges young people are facing today, including drugs, alcohol and mental health. Access the resources here: saferdevon.co.uk/lets-talk-teenagers/
Photo of Police and partners at one of the CAP events in Plymouth City Centre
Published 2 April 2025.
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