Police praised for work with young (From The Advertiser Series)

Police in Sherburn praised for their work with young people

11:10am Friday 18th January 2013 in News

POLICE have been honoured for their work in reaching out to young people.

Officers from the Sherburn Neighbourhood Policing Team, based in Durham City, have been awarded membership of Durham County Council’s Investing In Children scheme for the second year running.

Over the last year, officers have visited a number of venues in the area, including schools and community centres, to meet young people and listen to their views.

They have also organised specific Police and Communities Together meetings where local teenagers can speak directly to the police about local issues and concerns.

More than a dozen schools signed up to the initiative and officers have backed some of the ideas proposed by the youngsters, including patrolling play parks and organising speedwatch events at times and in areas recommended by young people.

Members of the Neighbourhood Policing Team today (Friday) visited Sherburn Hill Primary School, one of those which took part in the project, with their award.

PC Ralph Thompson said: "Instead of officers going into schools and making formal visits and talking at young people, we have been going to listen to them.

"This has made us all more aware of issues they are concerned with."

Local police community support officers (PCSOs) have been meeting with young people at Pelaw View Centre to establish better community relationships.