Primary pupils are staying safe

A scheme to help young people stay safe and on the right side of the law has been rebooted for the new year.

The Safekids programme is a partnership aimed at reducing the number of accidents in young people, and has run in Renfrewshire for more than 10 years.

This year’s programme – which was launched at St Mirren Park – will run throughout March and will be delivered to 1,650 young people.

The scheme is organised by the Safer Renfrewshire Partnership, which comprises Strathclyde Fire and Rescue as the lead agency along with Strathclyde Police, Renfrewshire Council’s Community Safety Services, Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drugs Service and St Mirren FC.

The launch event was attended by representatives from the various partners, along with local schoolchildren and teachers.

All primary six pupils within Renfrewshire will attend workshops where they will receive important personal safety lessons and crime prevention advice.

The scheme also promotes good citizenship and will help young people develop life skills so they can cope with new situations and challenges in the future.

Safekids is founded on the motto: “Tell me, and I may forget. Show me, and I may remember. Involve me, and I will understand.”

Area Commander Alan Fairbairn of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue said: “Strathclyde Fire & Rescue runs a number of programmes and initiatives aimed at inspiring young people.

“We are delighted to take the lead and deliver Safekids alongside our local community partners within Renfrewshire.

“The programme has been running successfully for more than 10 years, and has been proven to provide valuable life-coping skills to young people within Renfrewshire”.

Councillor Tommy Williams, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Housing and Community Safety Policy Board, said: “This is a very worthwhile scheme which will teach our young people valuable lessons and will help to prevent accidents.

“I’m sure the pupils will take plenty from it. The council is delighted to be part of such a well-established scheme and looks forward to it continuing for years to come.”

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