There is a new scheme in Scotland that is using the proceeds of crime in a positive way. It will not only benefit disadvantaged youngsters and those at risk of offending, but will also benefit motorcyclists everywhere, particularly if it is adopted as a role model for similar projects in England and Wales.

The scheme in Scotland makes the proceeds from crime available as grants to help the local community.

The Scottish Government’s CashBack for Communities initiative, seizes the proceeds of crime and puts it back into the affected communties.

£13million has been invested in the last two years in which more than 100,000 youngsters have participated.

One project that has benefitted from the funding is RUTS which stands for Rural Urban Training Scheme.

The project targets youngsters who are at risk of getting involved with crime, particularly motorcycle related crime and helps to focus their energies by teaching them motorcycle mechanics, thus helping them to develop a real life skill.

Included in the programme is:

• Motorcycle mechanics – how to carry out minor motorcycle repairs

• First Aid – targetted towards motorbike accidents

• An off road assessment with a mock test

The course encourages safe and responsible behaviour and the youngsters are reported as enjoying the hands-on mechanics and that it is giving them a respect for motorcycle ownership and what it is likely to mean to the owner if their motorcycle is stolen.

An added bonus has been that the young people have come to realise that there is a camaraderie amongst motorcycle enthusiasts and that their bad behaviour could rub off on the rest of the motorcycling community.

There are so many depressing stories about motorcyclists which are hyped up by the Daily Scum that it is great to be able to report on such a positive story which is not only benefiting the youngsters in the community but also motorcycling as a whole.