Speakers inspire students to look out for each other

More than 900 students heard about the dangers of knife crime, drugs and gangs at a conference organised by the Folkestone & Hythe District Community Safety Partnership.

The event at the Leas Cliff Hall on Thursday also focused on the importance of emotional health and positive relationships and was targeted at Year 9 pupils. Students from secondary schools across Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh attended.

Presentations included a screening of Breck’s Last Game, telling the story of 14-year-old Breck Bednar who was murdered by someone he met online. His mother Lorin LaFave was there to share her experience. There were also sessions on drug and alcohol awareness and how to stay safe.

Image copyright: Folkestone & Hythe District Council

The Community Safety Partnership includes Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Jyotsna Leney, Community Services Manager said it was an inspiring event.

She said: “There were some incredibly powerful presentations and I am sure they will have a lasting impact on the young people who were there.

“This is the second time we have held a conference for our young people and the aim was to encourage them to think about their decisions and choices.

“It was an opportunity to talk about risk-taking behavior and how to stay safe and to look out for each other, and to tell someone if they are worried about a friend or a classmate.”

The conference was closed by Adrian Harper, Chief Executive of the office of Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, who reminded young people of the importance of looking out for each other.

He said: “This event was all about spotting issues before they become problems, and we all have a role to play in that.

“We can all speak out if we are worried about a friend or a classmate and I hope that, after today, young

Image copyright: Folkestone & Hythe District Council

people across the Folkestone and Hythe district will feel more confident in doing just that.

“It’s vital to have these conversations with children of all ages, so they know that support is available if they are facing difficult choices or if they find themselves drawn into a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable.”

The organising team thanked the professionals who attended the event, including representatives from Kent Police and the Metropolitan Police, as well as sponsors

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