Greater Manchester police attending to support this update
Minutes:
Chief Superintendent Kirsty Oliver discussed the framework for child-centred policing in Greater Manchester Police (GMP), emphasizing the importance of addressing the needs and rights of young people within the justice system. The approach is structured around nine key pillars, including district representation, stop and search, custody, violence reduction, missing persons, training, community engagement, prevention and engagement, and the command structure involving gold, silver, and bronze levels of leadership. Stephanie Parker holds the Bronze command role, while Kirsty Oliver is in the Silver command position. These roles are crucial in ensuring that all districts within GMP adhere to the nine pillars of child-centred policing.
One significant initiative discussed was the Out of Court (OOC) disposals, which aims to change the approach to child arrests. The new policy requires immediate approval for any child arrest, ensuring that the decision is appropriate and justified at the moment. This initiative has successfully reduced the number of children in custody by 25%, highlighting the effectiveness of the new approach. The Youth Voice Panel is an essential part of GMP's strategy, providing young people with a platform to express their views and influence policing policies. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Youth Voice Panel is scheduled to convene in April this year, further emphasizing the commitment to involving young people in decision-making processes.
Kirsty Oliver provided statistics on the number of children brought into custody, noting that 153 children were detained, including those from outside Bury. This data underscores the need for continued efforts to reduce the number of children entering the justice system. Jeanette Richards discussed the Youth Justice Partnership's focus on preventing exploitation and supporting young people within Bury's youth services. The partnership aims to intervene early and provide resources to divert young people from criminal activities.
Several councillors raised important questions and concerns during the meeting. Councillor Fitzgerald questioned whether GMP has the right pool of personnel to effectively implement child-centred policing. Councillor McBriar inquired about the level of parental buy-in and support for the initiatives. Councillor Berry asked if there are enough officers to meet the demands of child-centred policing.
Councillor Smith emphasized the need for more safe places for young people to prevent exploitation and provide supportive environments. Councillor Boles discussed creative solutions to address the problems faced by children, highlighting the importance of feeling safe and supported. Councillor Marsden inquired about the progress of Onside Youth Zones, and Councillor Smith responded that the initiative is not going ahead. Instead, resources will be directed towards outreach efforts to provide support across the borough.
Kirsty Oliver highlighted the need for officers to receive training on how to communicate effectively with children. She noted that while Bury officers are empathetic, they require confidence and skills to handle situations involving young people. Councillor Ryder suggested engaging with primary schools to educate students about social media, given that many have mobile phones by Year 6. Councillor Haroon raised the issue of engaging with BAME children, and Kirsty Oliver mentioned a recent event across the Scrutiny panel on stop and search, indicating a willingness to address these concerns. Areeba Malik discussed the work being done by youth services in primary schools and the potential for collaboration with GMP.
Jeanette Richards discussed the role of the education system in supporting expelled students, with plans to routinely communicate with these young people and provide necessary support.
It Was Agreed:
· Chief Superintendent Kirsty Oliver be thanked for her presentation and attendance at the meeting
· The presentation be noted