YOUNG offenders will spend the next four months renovating a community hall under “reparation orders” handed down by the courts.
The youths will also pick up DIY skills as they carry out community service at Fanshawe Hall in Barnmead Road, Dagenham.
Up to 40 youngsters under the age of 18 will take part in the payback scheme reducing the risk of reoffending and boosting their chance of getting a job.
Communities cabinet member Cllr Jeanne Alexander said: “It will bring a great benefit to the community, who will get their hall brightened up and redecorated.
“There’s also a benefit to the youngsters taking part, because they’ll be able to learn new skills, gain confidence, and put their lives on the right track.
“Possibly one of the best things about it is that it reduces the risk of reoffending, and that has to be good news for everyone.”
The project has been used to revamp Teresa Green Community Hall on the Leys Estate, Dagenham, Hatfield Community Hall in Hatfield Road, Dagenham, Village Community Hall in Vicarage Road, Dagenham and Heath Park Community Hall on the Heath Park Estate, Dagenham.
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