A Nacro project worker has been nominated for a special commendation by Lancashire police for his commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour.

Twenty-five year old Adam Ward works on the Nacro Preston Youth Inclusion Project, which helps 13-17 year-olds to find alternatives to offending and antisocial behaviour.

The project focuses on areas with high levels of offending, truancy and social exclusion, providing a combination of sports activities and tailored support.

Having grown up on the deprived Brookfield estate himself, Adam understands the issues that the teenagers he works with are facing.

He says: “I know what it’s like to grow up in a tough area, where there’s a lot of poverty and not much for young people to do.

“I’ve seen some the people I grew up with go down the wrong path, and it’s that first-hand experience that’s driven my personal commitment to providing opportunities and alternatives for young people.

“I got in a bit of trouble myself when I was younger, but I’ve learned from my mistakes. It really helps me do my job, because I can draw on my own experiences. I teach them about thinking through the consequences of their actions and having a positive attitude.”

Adam has been nominated for the award because of his wiliness to go beyond what is expected.

Nacro Project Manager Karen Robinson says: “Adam has a fantastic relationship with the young people we work with. They really look up to him and respect him. He’s one of them, but at the same time he always maintains professional boundaries.”