GMP and partners re-invest criminal cash into school play that spreads awareness of violence against women and girls

Money, seized from criminals and distributed to police forces via the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS), is being invested into communities across Greater Manchester.

One of the latest initiatives by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) saw cash recovered from criminals funding the delivery of a play that was shown in schools across Tameside.

The work was commissioned jointly by both GMP and Tameside Council as part of their joint commitment to tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

Detective Chief Inspector Anna Barker led the project with Breaking Barriers and attended a performance and facilitated discussion on Wednesday 6 December at The Met in Bury alongside the Deputy Mayor Kate Green, partners from across Greater Manchester and young people.

The event also included a 30-minute workshop in which the children were encouraged to think about what VAWG means and how we can help create safer spaces.

Breaking Barriers spent time speaking to the pupils about their concerns regarding VAWG and what can be done about it.

These conversations were then worked into the script of the play.

Meanwhile Detective Inspector Helen Ryan and child protection officers from Tameside’s Child protection investigation Unit attended all ten plays shown at schools in Tameside to support with any disclosures or concerns raised by children.

DCI Anna Barker said: “This project initially started 12 months ago when we recognised a need to engage with young people and educate them about VAWG. We want children to recognise the signs and feel empowered to either challenge harmful behaviour (where safe to do so) or report it to professionals.

“GMP applied for the ARIS funding and once approved, we worked in partnership with the local youth council to develop the play and see it ran in schools.

“It’s brilliant to see criminals’ finances being invested back into communities across Greater Manchester to fund good causes such as this."

Non-profit organisations which benefit a large number of people, can apply for a maximum of £20,000 to fund 12 months’ activities which pledge to support GMP’s objectives to fight, prevent and reduce crime; keep people safe; and care for victims.

Find out more: Giving back: Investing in our community | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)