Published on:
09
September 2011
Clackmannanshire Council's Community Wardens, with the support of Central Scotland Police Community Resource Team, have been tackling vandalism at schools, in a project named 'School's Out'.
Firstly, the team visited schools to assess existing damage and speak to janitors to identify any areas of concern. Then wardens and police officers carried out regular patrols of primary schools over the summer holidays, both during the day and in the evenings, to check the premises and engage with young people found within the school grounds.
Central Scotland Police also delivered leaflets to addresses close to primary schools to encourage local residents to assist in keeping schools safe.
The result was that just 11 repairs to vandalism damage in all Clackmannanshire primary schools were needed over the summer - and four of these were repairs to damage caused before the initiative began. This compares with 25 repairs due to vandalism during the 2010 summer holidays.
Councillor Eddie Carrick, portfolio holder for sustainability, said: "I'm delighted that this innovative partnership has shown such positive results. During the summer holidays, school buildings are frequently the target of vandalism. This costs taxpayers money to repair, detracts from the appearance of the area and, if not reported quickly, can act as an encouragement to further vandalism. Thanks to the Council's work with the police and communities themselves, we've kept our neighbourhoods a safer, friendlier and more attractive."
Sergeant Craig Rankine said: "Vandalism to schools during the holidays is unfortunately all too common. We are always looking at ways to tackle crime and deliver a better service and this joint approach has proved successful. I would highlight and record my appreciation for the involvement of people who live near the schools, whose support in protecting their communities has been crucial."