Young people in West Lothian are being urged to pay heed to a safety campaign.
Fearless.org – the youth programme of independent charity Crimestoppers – has launched its Summer Safety campaign in partnership with Network Rail.
The campaign will focus on key primary prevention messages covering a broad range of topics to help young people to stay safe whether they’re at home, travelling, away for the day or on holiday.
Using digital animations that will appear across Snapchat and Instagram, the campaign will also see over 13,000 posters and flyers distributed across Scotland.
Topics include: child harm and neglect; CCE; drugs; housebreaking; trespassing on the railways and at the beach.
Lyndsay McDade, national youth projects coordinator for the charity Crimestoppers, said: “During the summer holidays, we know that young people can be more at risk of harm and neglect or becoming involved in criminal activity that could end with them being badly hurt.
“That’s why, with support from Network Rail, we’re delighted to be launching our Summer Safety campaign today which will run for the entirety of the school summer holidays.
“We aim to equip young people with the knowledge about crimes such as drugs, housebreaking and trespassing on the railway whilst reminding them that our charity – Fearless.org - is there 24/7 if they want to report information about crime 100 per cent anonymously.
“We can’t trace IP addresses or any contact details that could identify you. Nobody will ever know the information came from you – but your information will help make Scotland safer.”
Mark Henderson, senior community engagement manager at Network Rail, said: “Network Rail is delighted to be supporting Fearless.org with such an important campaign.
“During the summer months we see a marked increase in young passengers using our services. It’s important to us that they’re safe when travelling bus also continue to be once they reach their destination.
“Our partnership with Fearless.org will give young people the knowledge and key information to be able to enjoy a safer summer.”
Minister for Community Safety, Ash Denham MSP said: “I am delighted to see this campaign addressing a range of issues which may cause harm and distress over the summer period.
“Fearless.org offers young people a totally anonymous and safe way to speak up about who is responsible for harm they know of or suspect.”
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