Music used to Promote Community Safety to Young People
During November 2004, ‘Untouched’, a 3-piece girl group performed live for approximately 1500 pupils in years 7 and 8 in all six secondary schools across the Hyndburn district. It attempted to give young people the opportunity to make informed decisions about how to deal with issues such as drugs and crime in their local community.
‘Untouched’ gave an hour presentation that involved original music, factual and clear messages and lots of audience participation. Aimed at 11-13 year olds, the presentation delivered positive healthy lifestyle messages and challenged the audience to think about taking responsibility for their actions whilst raising awareness of the 0800 555 111 Crimestoppers number.
Feedback from both staff and pupils in all the schools on the interactive performance by Untouched was very positive.
A radio media campaign complementing the schools project was run with Rock FM. Aimed at encouraging both young people and parents, who may have any concerns about drugs to call ‘FRANK’ on 0800 77 66 00.
Michael Frankland, Chair of Hyndburn Community Safety Partnership said:
“People need clear and consistent messages about drugs and alcohol, especially young people. Education is a key element within our Community Safety Strategy, to tackle substance misuse in Hyndburn. The ‘B-Smart’ initiative presents an ideal opportunity to engage with young people in a manner, which is likely to appeal to them. It will also provide them with details about organisations, both locally and nationally, that can provide confidential help, information, advice and support. Our ultimate aim is to make Hyndburn a safer place to live, work and visit.”
