From Zero to Hero Debate

I was pleased to be invited to a debate facilitated by the UK Youth Parliament Member, Shaun Baxter on behalf of the organisation ‘From Zero to Hero’ This organisation is being supported by the Handsworth and Lozells CommUNITY team.

The panel, consisting of myself, Peter Latchford (currently writing a report on the Birmingham Disturbances), Superintendent Richard Moore, a local Police Constable and Kirk Dawes QPM of the Mediation Project, discussed the relationship between young people and the Police.

A lively debate took place challenging the panel members in particular the Police to review their strategy in engaging young people.

The Police listened, appreciated some of the criticism and promised to take the suggestions on board. They also offered the young people an opportunity to be part of a formal scrutiny committee set up look into the work of the Police around young people.

I was extremely pleased to see the young people in attendance and in particular the confidence of the Chair, Shaun Baxter in facilitating a lively but constructive debate.