WEEKS of hard work by the first trainees at C-FAR, the pioneering young offenders' rehabilitation centre at Okehampton Camp, came to a climax at a VIP presentation ceremony last Thursday, writes Jane Honey.
Two trainees completed the ten-week residential course at C-FAR, the Centre for Adolescent Rehabilitation — a further six have started the second course and the third is now over-subscribed.
The presentation of certificates to Mark Davey, 21, and Matthew Fleming, 20, was attended by trustees, local magistrates, civic dignitaries including Cllr Christine Marsh, mayor of Okehampton and others involved with C-FAR.
Lt Cl Trevor Philpott, chief executive, said it was a 'watershed' in C-FAR's development.
He said the trainees' real challenge was the nine months that lay ahead in the outside world, supported by C-FAR mentors.
He thanked those who believed in the project, the 'absolutely incredible' staff and the positive reaction from the MoD and local people.
'We have already got 16 referrals for the next course, of which we can only take 12.
'We have had two referrals from magistrates courts, one specifically as an alternative to custody,' he said.
Dame Elizabeth Butler-Sloss, vice-patron and guest of honour, said as a lawyer and judge she had first hand knowledge of how crime affects families.
'The chap who goes in and out of prison ruins family life,' she said.
'Drugs, crime and prison is a well-known lifestyle, how do you break it? It requires opportunity, motivation and perseverance,' said Dame Butler-Sloss, paying tribute to the trainees who completed the C-FAR course.
Ian Davies, West Devon magistrate, said: 'I think it's a marvellous scheme if it stops people re-offending. The course is challenging and demanding, if it succeeds it's great.
'The test will be in a year's time — hopefully, fingers crossed, it will work.'
Once young people are accepted by C-FAR, they work on a concentrated programme including numeracy, literacy, team building, personal health, outdoor activities, financial and social skills. They are helped by a team of specialised coaches.
Coach Amy Long, a psychology graduate, said: 'This is totally what I believe in — the guys that come here have such commitment to change.'
Coach Dean Checkley, 33, has a very special interest in the rehabilitation of the C-FAR youngsters — from the age of 17 he spent 'numerous' spells in prison, was addicted to drugs and had been through a variety of detoxification programmes.
For the last few years he has been 'mentoring' young people and was invited to come to C-FAR as a coach.
'I just wish there had been this sort of facility for me when I was 17,' he said.
'The guys gel with me a lot easier than with someone who may have been more academically educated. I'm very open with them, I think it's quite inspirational for them to see that an ex-addict can do this.
'I absolutely love it — it enhances and increases my own growth to see someone blossom,' said Dean.
And what about Mark and Matthew, stars of the day?
Mark wants to train to be a painter and decorator. He said: 'Now we're at the end, it's gone too fast, I wish I had taken more in, it could've gone on longer. Thank you to everyone for having the time and patience to bring me through — they've been stars.'
Matthew, who has been in and out of trouble since he was 17, said prison left him isolated — now he feels able to communicate and intends to work with young people himself.
'Thank you, Trevor — and all you people,' he said.