On-the-spot rewards for kids in Torbay

Kirsty Ogborne with Reward Tickets

Devon & Cornwall police are to issue 'on-the-spot rewards' to Torbay youngsters as part of a new scheme to recognise young people for instances of good work in the community.

Under the 'Motiv8' scheme young people will be given reward tickets if they are ‘caught’ carrying out a good deed, such as picking up litter or helping someone. They will then be considered for a reward, such as a high street voucher or entry to a local attraction, plus a certificate from the police.

Motiv8 has been inspired by Paignton teenager Kirsty Ogborne, 16, who suggested that police give out “fixed penalty tickets in reverse to people seen doing good things.” She submitted the idea to the police stand at Devon County Show last year, when the constabulary asked young people to come up with initiatives to promote prosocial behaviour in the community. She won a laptop for her idea at the time.

Now she will see her idea adopted across Torbay as well as being officially launched by street dance group, Flava, who starred in ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent. Rewards have been donated by AMF Bowling, Apollo Cinemas, Paignton Zoo, Living Coasts, Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway and Kents Cavern.

Torbay Policing Commander Superintendent Chris Singer said: “This is a fantastic idea which came from a young person and I’m really pleased we have been able to introduce it in Torbay. Young people often get bad press but young people do a lot of good things and this is a great way of recognising that.”

To find out more about Motiv8 and how to support the scheme go to www.yrspace.info