Speak up on crime

On Monday evening groups of young people from across the town will come together for a youth consultation event.

Results of the 1998 Crime Audit and two years of community-based consultations in Swindon identified young people as the most likely victims and perpetrators of crime.

A fear of crime survey has also been carried out in Swindon. It revealed 37 per cent of under 21 year olds avoid going out alone.

About 66 per cent of those under 21 said they felt unsafe walking locally at night.

Miriam Minty, Swindon's Crime and Disorder co-ordinator, said: "During September and October youth workers have been working with groups of young people across the town to engage them in discussions around crime and safety in their neighbourhoods." The onus at Monday evening's session is on young people.

"Young people will be in the majority and the town's decision makers, such as key members and directors, will listen to their views on a specific set of crime and community safety issues.

The aim is to draw up an action plan to be incorporated into the updated Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy 2001-2," she said.

Coun Barrie Thompson, lead cabinet member for equalities and partnerships, said: "Young people should not be seen as problems in our community, they should be seen as a valuable resource both for today and the future. "This consultation will give the young people the space to talk and share concerns."

Mike Lusty, the council's director of education and community, said: "Following on as it does so soon after Local Democracy Week, I am pleased that young people will have the opportunity to express their views on crime and community safety issues in Swindon."

He said that empowering young people to take part when considering the issues and solutions to community safety could only be helpful.

The Youth Consultation Event will take place at the Broadgreen Social Hall between 6pm and 8pm.

Further information about the work of the Crime and Disorder team can be obtained on 01793 466510.