The North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner has visited a Flintshire social enterprise which has secured funding through the Your Community, Your Choice initiative.

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin and Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans recently visited the social enterprise seeking to combat crime through music.

Their visit on May 29 was to the Rockworks Academy, located at the Penyffordd and Penymynydd War Memorial Institute in Penyffordd, dedicated to making music accessible to everyone, irrespective of background or circumstances.

The Academy was successful in securing funding from the Your Community, Your Choice initiative for their 'Breaking Barriers' project.

This initiative aims to broaden participation in music through tuition, group sessions, and masterclasses.

It targets diverse groups, including young people who are socially excluded or disengaged.

Your Community, Your Choice supports community projects and is backed by the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, North Wales Police and Community Trust, and North Wales Police.

The funding comes partly from money seized by the courts through the Proceeds of Crime Act, and the rest comes from the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Since its inception eleven years ago, nearly £600,000 has been granted to almost 200 projects seeking to reduce crime and support the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.

Rockworks Academy offers flexible delivery of their music sessions - either in their studios in Wrexham and Flintshire or in outdoor venues.

Their adaptive music sessions, led by experienced tutors, cater to various needs and abilities, ensuring inclusive participation.

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In addition, they host shows and performances throughout the year.

The Crime Commissioner's visit shed light on the project's importance, and the impact that it has on everyone involved.

Tanya Jones, drum tutor and director of the Rockworks Academy, said: "Thanks to the money received from this amazing grant, we are able to facilitate a year of monthly music sessions for the Youth Tribe.

"A group of neurodiverse teenagers who enjoy playing music together.

"We can provide a safe, dry, familiar and equipped environment with qualified tutors on hand to supervise.

"This initiative has a great and positive impact on the Youth Tribe as they further their knowledge and experience doing something they love to do."

She also said: "We want to thank Your Community, Your Choice for giving us this fantastic opportunity."

Mr Dunbobbin said: "I am very pleased to have helped fund the Rockworks Academy’s hugely impactful sessions.

"I saw during my visit the positive atmosphere, engagement, and strong sense of community on display from all involved."

North Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans said: "North Wales Police is delighted to fund what is another great example of the difference Your Community, Your Choice is making to communities right across North Wales."