Police hail arrival of youth officers to forge local links

POLICE are introducing youth community officers in schools in a bid to improve links between the force and young people.

Pc Katy Johnstone and Pc Lynne Cochrane took on the roles of youth community officers for the Dalkeith campus and Newbattle High School, respectively, last week while also maintaining links with Saltersgate School and local primary schools in the Dalkeith area.

The role has been developed through consultation with Midlothian Council and headteachers. The aim is to maximise engagement between police and pupils while ensuring that “early and appropriate action” is taken to deal with youth-related issues.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, divisional commander for Midlothian and East Lothian, said: “The introduction of youth community officers is a fantastic development that will make a real difference to the schools and wider community.”