Police engage with families during school holiday activity day in Derker

Greater Manchester Police officers from Operation Vulcan spent the day in Derker, for a community event in Stoneleigh Park.

The day, organised by local volunteering group Friends of Stoneleigh Park, was part of the council’s holiday activities for the local community.

The Vulcan team have been regularly attending these events to meet and speak with local residents, with the aim to improve confidence and trust in the police, and to help build strengthened relationships with young people.

Officers from Op Vulcan, alongside neighbourhood officers, PCSOs, Police Cadets, GMP’s Positive Action Team, and officers from our Police Mounted Unit were in attendance.

Children had the opportunity to meet officers, sit in our vehicles, test out the blue light systems and try on uniforms.

Interactive stalls like VR headsets were also available, where attendees could find out more about specialist teams, increase their understanding of policing, and be educated around the dangers of knife crime.

The Deputy Mayor Kate Green also attended the event so she could see firsthand the positive work that comes from events like these.

The event is important for the community as all children received a free packed lunch, helping to support families in the area.

DCI Chris Julien, from Operation Vulcan, said: “These events help bring the local community together, and are so important as they give us the opportunity to engage with them, and strengthen relationships by increasing trust and confidence in us.

"We are delighted that the Deputy Mayor Kate Green travelled to see the event, and I’d like to thank all those who came along and spent time speaking to us.

"We had some really positive and valuable feedback from residents about the work we’re doing to tackle issues locally, and this proactivity will continue.”

Councillor Elaine Taylor, Oldham Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “These holiday activity events are a fantastic way to bring our communities together and to give families free support during the holidays.

“Summer can be an expensive time when you have children, so I’m delighted that we can provide free activities for children and families during the holidays.

“Oldham has shown a real commitment to its children and young people with events like these.

“A big thank you to everyone who has made this happen, and particularly the Friends of Stoneleigh Park who have organised this event.”

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