“How Havering Police Are Transforming Young People’s Lives — And No One’s Talking About It”

At a time when police forces across the country are working hard to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships with young people, one initiative in Havering is proving what real community engagement looks like.

Far from the headlines that often paint policing in a negative light, local officers in Harold Hill are showing how proactive, positive action can change lives. Through sport, mentorship, and genuine partnership, they are giving young people opportunities, structure, and a sense of belonging — and the results speak for themselves.

United in Football and Basketball is part of Havering police’s Clear Hold Build Initiative “Our Harold Hill” set up by Acting Chief-Inspector Routley and PC Harley to divert youth from crime to sport.  The project has seen tremendous success within the local community and has expanded across the Havering borough. 

The United in Football and Basketball returned in October half-term school holidays to three venues in Havering to provide children in the local community with free sports sessions. There was also a partnership football tournament with West Ham United Foundation at Brittons School, Rainham.

The project has seen huge success with around 3500 young people attend sporting events organised as part of the Clear Hold Build Initiative.

During October’s half term we saw 240 children attend the three sessions offered.

Police Constable Harley, from the Met’s local policing team and founder said:

“It is amazing to see the success of this event and the benefits of joint partnership, in helping to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in the local areas. These events allow us to connect with younger members of the community to build trust and open doors to opportunities through sport.” 

“None of this would have been possible without the brilliant support and partnership of The Havering Council, First Touch Sport, West Ham Foundation, Bad Thunder. We are very grateful for all that they do to support local communities”

“The United in Football and Basketball will continue to run their sessions across Havering. We are making and finalising plans for a joint tournament with West Ham Foundation in December, with a view to have more of these sessions in the New Year. 

“It is truly great to see the positive impact the sessions have had on young people and that they have provided the encouragement to children to play sports and develop their skills.”

The below sessions are available for everyone.

There are FREE Premier League Kicks sessions available every Monday between 17:00-18:00hrs at Drapers’ Academy for everyone 8-18years old.

Youth Unity offer safe space for young people every Thursday between 15:00- 17:30hrs by Hildene Shops

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