Plans to tackle anti-social behaviour on trams through school visits

Police officers and Metrolink staff have teamed up to raise awareness of the consequences of anti-social behaviour, following a shocking rise in incidents on trams across Greater Manchester.

Between 10th December 2017 and 3rd February 2018, there were 330 incidents on the network, with a number of them involving children between the ages of 10 and 14.

Now, as part of their 'Crucial Crew' engagment roadshow, GMP officers and Metrolink staff have been visiting schools in target areas, including anti-social behaviour hotspots like Oldham and Rochdale.

Chris Jackson, from Metrolink, said:

"Even though we get 40 million passengers each year, most of those will not experience any anti social behaviour, we do know low level anti social behaviour does exist and it tends to be in the 10-14 year age group.

"We're very, very keen that it's not just the reactive measures, but also preventative measures. Initatives such as this, with kids getting involved at an early age, can really get the message out there that behaving in such a way just isn't acceptable.

"It's a difficult time for a lot of transport networks, we know that kids are out and about, which is why we're engaging now, prior to the summer holidays, so that all of our key messages are out there.

"This is the area that has most of our issues, kids are well aware because there's examples of things like smashed windows. We're trying to make them aware of the consequences of their actions and hopefully take them away from doing it."

A number of children from Holy Rosary Primary School attended the events.

Lincoln and Alexa, in Year 6, said:

"It was really fun, the stories and how to be safe. I realise how intimidated people can be and what to do if there are any problems.

"I've learnt not to hang around in big groups and I thought it was OK but I've learnt that it's not and I've realised how intimidated people can be by big groups."

GMP are hoping this will give kids the chance to see what is involved, and get engaged with officers in the future.