Greenwich teenagers being supported by the crime reduction charity Nacro, are to benefit from a radical new health initiative launching today, aimed at improving their diet, fitness and mental wellbeing.

Nacro Creekside Foyer is a housing project based in Greenwich, which supports over 40 young homeless people aged 16-25. As well offering a safe place to stay, the project reduces the risk of offending, by helping residents get into education, training and work.

They were recently awarded £47,000 by the Youth Capital Fund and spent part of the money implementing the new health regime.

It’s based around the three key areas of diet, fitness and mental health. From today residents will have access to a new gym, fitness classes and healthy eating sessions alongside art and drama therapy.

Nacro Creekside project worker Hessell Williams says: “Most of the young people we work with come from troubled backgrounds and haven’t been taught how to take care of their own basic health needs.”

“We’re taking a holistic approach, which will address physical and mental wellbeing. Many of them have experienced family breakdown, and it’s those issues we’re hoping to work through with weekly art and drama therapy sessions. This will benefit every area of their lives.”

Kirsty Simpson, 18, moved into Creekside a year ago after a string of rows with her family. She says: “Being at Creekside has made me a lot happier. I have got onto a beauty therapy course and the staff helped me to find part-time work as a waitress for big events. I get on much better with my family now, but I believe that it wasn’t for Nacro, I would be on the streets.”

“I’m really excited about the new health plan, and I’m going to be helping out with it myself by holding aromatherapy classes for the other residents.”

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If you would like to arrange an interview or attend the event, please contact Rachel Whitehead, Nacro Media and Communications Officer on 0207 840 7218 or 07528970900 rachel.whitehead@nacro.org.uk