The West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed an innovative approach to tackle Child Sexual Exploitation.
Loudmouth, have been using theatre to engage with over 1000 school children across Telford. Discussion is encouraged in a workshop setting, and follows an interactive performance pitched at 13-14 year olds highlighting key issues and encouraging them to ask questions and give advice to the characters, in a hot seat style. Following the performance teachers are given tailored lesson plans to continue the learning.
The Commissioner previously provided £4000 in grant funding for the project, which was match funded by Telford and Wrekin Council.
Commissioner John Campion said “Child Sexual Exploitation is a priority issue for West Mercia Police and myself, and I am committed to ensuring the police have the resources to tackle the issue, as well as investing in projects which support victims and tackle the issues at the root. I welcome this original approach, engaging with young people and encouraging open and frank discussions, in order to raise awareness, and prevent young people from becoming victims of this horrific crime.”
Councillor Paul Watling, cabinet member at Telford & Wrekin Council, said:“We are pleased to be working alongside the Police Crime Commissioner in supporting this theatre project. Keeping children and young people safe from harm is the most important thing that the council does and we are always keen to explore new ways of engaging with schoolchildren about what a vile crime child sexual exploitation is.”
Chris Cowan, Director of Loudmouth Education and Training said “We have been working with Telford council for 12 years on a range of issues and have always been impressed at the way that young people in Telford engage with the performance and workshop using the characters in the drama to discuss ways of staying safe and finding local support.”
Issued: Thursday 20th September 2018
