Car crash scenario teaches respect in the park
9 June 2008
One hundred and twenty youngsters from two Manchester primary schools will be learning the consequences of crime during a hard-hitting car crash simulation at Crowcroft Park.
Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Greater Manchester Ambulance Service are organising a scenario where a stolen car crashes into a tree in the park in Longsight.
Two people will be inside the car. One will try to flee, pursued by the police. The other, who is trapped in the vehicle, will be cut free by the fire and ambulance service.
The role-play project, which is being held this Friday (June 13), is aimed at showing the youngsters what a devastating impact crime can have. Victim and witness support will go into Crowcroft Park Primary School and Stanley Grove Primary School to give year five youngsters a presentation on the impact of crime on the community, its victims and perpetrators. They'll carry out a questionnaire both before and after the role-play to find out what the pupils have learned.
Manchester City Council deputy leader, Councillor Jim Battle said: "The majority of young people in Manchester are responsible and do show respect for their families and friends and their community. Many young people have to face difficult decisions and this exercise shows what the consequences can be and the impact it can have on their friends and family if they behave recklessly. Youngsters who've taken part in similar hard-hitting exercises say its made them more aware and has had an effect on their behaviour."
The project is part of a wider Respect in the Park initiative which will include a truancy sweep, a clean-up in the park and surrounding area, joint patrols with South Manchester Community Wardens and police officers and diversionary activities for young people including free football coaching on Thursday 12 June and Friday 13 June 2008.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sally Wheatman, Press Officer, tel: 0161 234 4045
