Police donation makes children bounce with joy [NEWS ITEM]: North Shields
(NE29 - Thursday, 14 May, 2009)

Children in North Shields are literally bouncing for joy thanks to a charity donation from Northumbria Police.

The Northumbria Police Charities Fund has stepped in with a bouncy castle to give youngsters at the North Shields Lone Parents Club a bit of fun, and the opportunity to help them fundraise.

The club, part of the Gingerbread project, a nationwide children's charity, offers support to single parents and aims to divert young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour.

Inspector Geoff Cross, North Shields Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

"This group do really good work with families who need extra help and support on the Meadowell.

"These children are having great fun playing on the bouncy castle and the group can also use it to help them raise funds to support the project."

The club works with young parents and offers parenting skills and child management by providing workshops, club nights and projects.

It aims to improve behaviour and provide a positive alternative for young people aimlessly hanging around the streets.

Tina Matthews, of North Shields Lone Parents Club said:

"We're very grateful to Northumbria Police Charities Fund for the bouncy castle, it will get very well used.

"Not only can the children at the club enjoy it but we can also use it for children's parties on Saturdays to help us generate money for the club."

Police Force: Northumbria

Address:
North Shields Lone Parents Club
North Shields
Tyne and Wear
NE29