22/6/10 Community News

HITTING THE MARK Northamptonshire Police has been awarded the Bronze Charter Mark for its work in engaging and supporting young people in the county.

The Charter Mark programme, which is run the county's Children and Young People Partnership, is based on a national model and carries four standards: bronze, silver, gold and platinum.

The Force fulfilled the criteria for a bronze award in a number of areas. For example, officers use risk assessment techniques help to protect young witnesses from going to court, as well as providing support to juvenile offenders.

The Force and Police Authority actively encourage young people to share their views on policing, and the Safer Schools Partnership has been set up to improve links between the police, schools and young people.

Assistant Chief Constable, Martin Jelley, said: "Our focus has been to bring in strategies and polices to meet the needs of young people and improve how we support and relate to them. It's great to be recognised for what we have achieved so far." The CYPP also noted that the Force is already achieving the Silver Charter Mark level in some areas.

Thank you.