Mock-up brings home the realities of crime
Reporter: Beatriz Ayala
Date published: 20 October 2008
PIONEERING SCHEME . . Fire crews rescue youngsters from inside a wrecked car as part of a demo
A PIONEERING scheme is showing teenagers the devastating consequences of criminal activity.
Ten teens from Greenacres Youth Inclusion Programme (GYIP) were cut from the wreckage of “stolen” cars before being locked up in a cell at Chadderton Police Station on Saturday.
Their realistic experiences were part of the Crime to Custody project which aims to show the consequences of criminal behaviour.
Over the next few weeks, the teens will take part in a mock trial at Oldham Magistrates’ Court and visit the young offenders’ institution at Hindley after sentencing. They will also listen to talks from the emergency services and meet campaigner Sharon Crowshaw, whose son Carl was killed in a drink driving accident.
The project has been developed by Greater Manchester Police, the fire service and GYIP.
A presentation evening will round things off, with youngsters who have completed certain units receiving an AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance) award in youth justice.
GYIP manager Wendy Acton said: “This is the first time we have done anything like this and it has been a fantastic experience.
“I found it quite traumatic and upsetting watching the volunteers being cut out of the cars.
“And I think the young people found it harder than they expected.
“This is an experience most people will never go through, so it would be a good idea to pursue it and use the film as an education package for schools.”
Zack Barlow (14), from Greenacres, was cut out of one of the wrecked cars during the role play at Chadderton Fire Station.
He said: “I was one of the people they put on a spinal board and it felt like real life.
“I’m looking forward to visiting Hindley to see what it is like.
“This project has put me off getting into trouble.”
Andrew Cook (15), from Waterhead, also took part and said: “It has given me a good idea of what it would be like to go through this in real life.
“It’s a good project to be part of as it teaches you about crime and what happens.
“It should be for younger teenagers before they get involved.”
Sgt Brian McGill, from East Oldham, said: “We can still reach these youngsters and we’re trying to dissuade them from getting into trouble.
“It would do no harm to have a rolling programme of projects like this one.”
