Tuesday 13th June, 2006
Time flies! I hardy seem to have time to sit down and write this blog; however I now have an administrative assistant, who I'm sure will remind me that I need to do exactly that! I'd like to welcome to Kaye Wootton and let you know that in my absence, messages can be left with Kaye on: 01785 277116.
Last time, I told you about my planned visit to Birches School Council - I had a very pleasant afternoon and was most impressed with the work that the children had done, including recycling, nature area, healthy eating and friendship bench. Well done to all the school council members!
My meeting with the Assistant Chief Constable and his Divisional Commanders was extremely productive; his staff team made me very welcome. We exchanged information about lots of issues that affect children and young people, in particular around 'section 30' areas.
A 'section 30' area means that the police have applied for an order which makes it easier for them to break up groups of people and move them on easily.
It applies to ALL people, not just young people.
If you are behaving, even in a large group, you will not be affected and shouldn't be asked to move on. It's only when individuals or groups behave in a way that is likely to upset others that the police should then direct you to move away - they can also ban you from returning to that area for 24 hours.
It has been agreed that in future, when a police division applies for a section 30 order, they will let me know in advance, so that I can let as many children and young people know as possible. Look out for posters in your schools/colleges clubs, high streets, libraries and local shops telling you where the areas are.
The 'framework for participation' has been approved and the Trust Board members have signed a 'participation pledge' to show that they are committed to this work.
I was contacted by someone from Tittensor where the young people live in quite a rural area and have no recreation facilities. I met with a group of young men who explained to me that they are always moved on from various areas if they want to play football. They are getting together to ask all their mates from this area if they feel the same and then I'm helping them talk to the 'right' people to find a solution to the problem. I've already spoke to the local counsellor, Henry Butter, who is happy to raise this issue at the next parish council meeting - the young men may even go along to present their case. They'd also like somewhere dry to hang out with their mates; again they're going to ask the other locals if this is what the majority want and then decide how best to move this forward.
Weds last found me at the Tillington Hall Hotel, as keynote speaker at a conference about participation. I helped deliver a workshop around the 'Hear by Right' core standards that should be used when involving children and young people. You can find out more about Hear by Right' on the NYA website: www.nya.org.uk/hearbyright/
I've been working with others to develop a 'no smoking' policy for young people who are looked after by the local authority, especially those who are in foster care. The draft is almost ready and we were joined by two young people, so that we had the differing views of a smoker and non smoker. Watch this space, as they may be doing some research into the subject!
At the end of last week, I visited St Chad's Primary School Council in Pattingham. What a lovely way to end the week - the children were so bright, eager and very proactive! They'd done so much hard work to become a school counsellor - even writing a manifesto before they were elected! The school council has been involved in healthy eating, recycling, nature area, fundraising for the Tsunami and they are now planning a bring and buy sale to raise money. Well done to all school council members!
I have another busy week ahead, including presenting 2 DVD players to youth clubs who have recently helped complete questionnaires in the Newcastle area.
Last Modified:
29/09/2006 08:28:23
Back to top