Police launch summer School Watch scheme

With the school holidays about to begin, a scheme which encourages people to keep a close eye on their local school has been launched across Conwy and Denbighshire.

 

Keeping schools free from crime at all times of the year but particularly during school holidays is the main aim of School Watch.

 

Now in its 10th year, it encourages parents, residents, and teachers as well as the emergency services and the local authorities to work together to keep schools and their immediate surrounding areas safe, free from crime and anti-social behaviour.

 

Recently, pupils at Ysgol Pant Yr Rhedyn in Llanfairfechan had the opportunity to learn a little more about the scheme and also about the work of police and their partners as School Watch was launched in the county of Conwy.

 

The importance of keeping safe over the summer holidays was also stressed to the youngsters who also had an opportunity to explore a number of emergency service vehicles that had been taken along especially for the launch.

 

Year seven and eight pupils at Prestatyn High School also had the same valuable insight when the scheme was launched on Wednesday, July 2, at the school for Denbighshire.

 

The work is being undertaken by North Wales Police as part of the Summer Safety campaign.

 

Ifan Hughes, Divisional Crime Reduction Manager said: “We hope that everyone will continue to support School Watch which has been running for a number of years.

 

* Police officers visit a school.

“Sadly, school buildings can become a target for vandalism and graffiti over the summer beak and we are calling on residents who live nearby and anyone who sees any suspicious activity around a school to please support us by getting in touch on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”

 

Carly Wilson, Planning & Resources Manager said: “Denbighshire are proud to be working with North Wales Police on such a positive initiative. Our schools buildings are a valuable resource for our pupils and we will support any measures that can be taken to protect them"

 

Cllr Wyn Jones, Conwy Council’s Cabinet Member for Lifelong Learning & Skills said: “With the help of parents and the local community through the School Watch campaign we can prevent criminal damage to our schools and reduce the possibility of disruption to our pupils and their education.”

 

“We rely on members of the public for their support,” added Ifan Hughes.” We ask people that if they live near or overlook a school and see anything suspicious to please report it.”

 

Leaflets and posters have been distributed throughout North Wales, reminding the public of the scheme which also aims to help stamp out mindless acts which not only affects the school, but the whole community.

 

Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour in or around schools or at school buildings is urged to contact North Wales Police. If you witness a crime in progress always dial 999. Non-emergency calls should be made to 101 or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.