Youths cop a chance to give police views

YOUNG people in the Lothians are set to be consulted by police in a series of workshops in a bid to gauge their view of the force.

The latest event was to be held yesterday at Stewart's Melville College, with 40 young people aged between 14 and 21 taking part.

The topics under discussion were to include "Adults always know best?"; "Do young people feel well protected by the police?"; "Is breaking the law part of growing up?"; and "Young people are always given negative press?"

The participants were chosen by Children 1st, as representing a variety of backgrounds and with a wide spectrum of views.

Police chiefs hope that the workshop's conclusions will give the force insight into the issues and concerns which affect young people, in order to develop an effective youth strategy.

Inspector Jim Royan said: "Events like these are a fantastic opportunity to find out what the real issues are for young people, and what they want us to do about them."