Devon & Cornwall Police's community engagement event targets youth alcohol awareness

Devon & Cornwall Police, in collaboration with local partners, recently held a successful community engagement event in Plymouth, aiming to address concerns about antisocial behaviour and alcohol use among young people. The initiative brought together police officers, youth organisations, and partner agencies to engage with over 80 young people aged 14 to 20 through interactive workshops and activities.

Held in Plymouth City Centre, the street event featured sessions designed to foster open dialogue about safe socialising and the risks associated with alcohol consumption. Participants were encouraged to express their views while learning about positive alternatives to risky behaviour.

Police Sergeant Mark Williams, who attended the event, spoke of the importance of educating young people on making safe choices. "Alcohol can impair judgment, contributing to issues like antisocial behaviour. Our aim is to keep young people safe and encourage responsible decision-making when it comes to alcohol and socialising," said Sgt. Williams. "It wasn’t about telling them what not to do, but listening to their perspectives and working together to promote healthier options."

In addition to the police, several organisations participated in the event, including Plymouth Argyle's PL Kicks initiative, Council Youth Outreach, Plymouth Community Homes, and Plymouth Against Retail Crime (PARC). A street artist also performed live spray paint art, adding a creative element to the engagement activities.

Representatives from the newly launched Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) were on hand to discuss the dangers of underage drinking. CAP, which works to reduce alcohol harm in children and young people, stressed the importance of steering youths away from alcohol-related risks. CAP Regional Adviser for South West England, Annie Ashford-Barnden, said that underage drinking can disrupt education and lead to risky behaviours such as drug use and violence. "By working together, we can help create an alcohol-free childhood and safeguard young people’s futures," she said.

The event also raised awareness of various local safety initiatives, including the Safe Bus, Ask for Angela, Plymouth Night Patrol, Street Pastors, and Taxi Marshalls, all of which contribute to a safer evening and night-time environment in the city.

The next engagement event is scheduled for October 28, with more information available on Devon & Cornwall Police's website. Additionally, free "Let’s Talk" toolkits, aimed at helping parents and guardians understand the challenges young people face today, including drugs, alcohol, and mental health, are accessible online at Safer Devon’s website.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by Devon & Cornwall Police to build positive relationships with young people, encouraging trust and deterring crime and antisocial behaviour.