A Glasgow Primary school, a beneficiary of a pioneering government scheme, has been playing host to a Welsh Assembly Minister.
 
Huw Lewis, Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage, arrived at Cadder Primary School to learn more about Cashback for Communities, the Scottish Government’s initiative which re-distributes money clawed back from the assets of criminals.  Cadder Primary, in the Maryhill area of the city, is now home to a Scottish Rugby community coaching scheme.

It is Scottish Rugby’s partnership with the Scottish Government which will see £5 million of criminal’s seized cash being reinvested back into the game across the country over a six year period.

Before discussions on the benefits of the scheme, Mr Lewis was treated to a rugby session with 20 Primary 7 pupils run by the local development officer, Thomas Davidson, who is part-funded through the Cashback scheme.

The Minister now hopes to take some of the ideas back to his Assembly colleagues in Wales and look at introducing similar ideas into their local communities.

He said: “This is my first port of call in my visit to Scotland today. I’m bowled over by the enthusiasm and determination from Scottish Rugby to run rugby projects in areas of Glasgow and Scotland where rugby is not well-known.
 
“It’s a deliberate attempt to break the mould of those exposed to rugby and it’s impressive because the CashBack for Communities funding allows these programmes to be run long- term and invest in young peoples’ lives.
 
“This trip is all about sharing ideas and taking inspiration back to Wales. I really like the Modern Apprentice programme. Take, for instance, Thomas Davidson who is coaching here today. He is 18 years old and is now working for Scottish Rugby coaching in this area after being through the MA programme.
 
“We have a commitment to introduce diversionary activities to children in deprived areas of Wales, so I’m keen to chat with the Welsh Rugby Union about what I have seen today.”
 
Scottish Rugby community project manager, Neil Carrie, added: “The minister’s visit is a great opportunity to showcase the work we are doing in the community and to share ideas.
 
“The CashBack funding is a great partnership which allows us to work in all areas in Scotland and develop programmes which provide investment and sustainability for young people.”