Relations Between Young People and the Police

Part of 2. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Local Government and Public Services – in the Senedd at 3:05 pm on 13 June 2018.

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Photo of Jayne Bryant Jayne Bryant Labour 3:05, 13 June 2018

Thank you, Cabinet Secretary. Over the last few months, Gwent Police have been piloting a groundbreaking scheme with three schools in Newport, where 58 pupils from Millbrook, Pillgwenlly and Ringland primary schools have become members of Mini Police, or Heddlu Bach. The children, with permission, go out to help officers in community events and they start discussions to educate their peers at home, at school, and with their friends. And indeed, today, Pill primary school have been out checking the speed limits in their area. The scheme's a great opportunity to inspire the next generation of police and public servants, and it's having a palpable effect on the children involved, with teachers and parents reporting big changes in many, and it's proving very popular. And this isn't just an opportunity for improvement in police relations; the effect on those children, undoubtedly, is lifelong, promoting good citizenship. Will the Cabinet Secretary look at this excellent practice taking place in Gwent Police, and these schools, and look at what the Welsh Government can do to further extend the reach of projects like this throughout our communities?