Police use criminal profits to support local diving group

Devon & Cornwall Police have reinvested money from criminal activity to help fund equipment for a local youth diving group in Plymouth.

£750 was given to the Plymouth Diving Group by police from the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), funding spin bikes, a resistance box and a plyo box for their gym.

The local group aims to bring young people together from different backgrounds with ranging swimming abilities, teaching young people to be confident in the water while learning how to dive. Part of their sessions include fitness training in the gym, which is where the equipment will be located.

Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Clare Honeychurch, said: “We’re pleased to be able to support a local group in our community who teach young people essential skills. It’s not only about swimming, but the social skills that they’ll learn by being part of the group which they’ll have with them for life.

“It’s great that we’re able to use money that police have seized from criminals for good; using the proceeds to support local groups, charities and projects, like Plymouth Diving, who do great work in our communities.”

Charlotte Westbury, representative from Plymouth Diving, said: “We have now received all the equipment. We are so grateful and the children were so excited. Christmas came early for the children of Plymouth Diving! Thank you so much for all your help.”

Police are pleased to continue supporting more worthwhile causes in communities in Plymouth. For more information about POCA funding, get in touch with your local neighbourhood police team: Your area | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk).