Neighbourhood Policing Week focuses on youngsters this half term

This half-term police officers are encouraging youngsters to join in organised activities in an aim to reduce antisocial behaviour.

School holidays can have the potential to see an increase in the number of antisocial behaviour incidents. In order to tackle this, police officers have been arranging different activities and events for children to become involved in and give them a focus to their half-term.

While the priority is to reduce reports of antisocial behaviour, the Neighbourhood Policing Teams will have the opportunity to speak to more youngsters, develop relationships, hear their views on policing and what their priorities are.

The activities have been arranged to coincide with the half term holidays, which starts today and runs until Sunday 19^th February. All of the activities are detailed at www.wotson4u.com.

Parents and guardians will be able to see what activities are available by visiting the website, most of which are free.

Cumbria Constabulary’s lead for Antisocial Behaviour, Chief Superintendent Don Spiller said: “Anti-social behaviour is a priority for policing in Cumbria. Many of the reports we receive are about young people loitering on local streets and behaving in a way that makes them intimidating to other people in the community.

“When we speak to young people, some complain that they have nothing to do. By offering a wide range of activities from drama clubs, music lessons to sports activities, we hope there will be something for everyone.”

“Reports of antisocial behaviour tend to rise during school holidays and I urge the local youngsters to think about the impact their actions can have and also local residents to be tolerant. We were all young once, and we should encourage children to enjoy being outside and being active. Intimidating or antisocial behaviour, however, will not be tolerated, and our officers will be responding to reports of this nature as a priority.

“We would urge young people to take part in the activities on offer as it will be a great opportunity to meet new people and talk to your neighbourhood police officers about any issues they may face as we are keen to support all members of the community, including young people.”

A full calendar of events is available online at www.wotson4u.com .