09/02/2007
Launch of Your Choice website
A multi-agency campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour, trespassing on train tracks, and promoting the dangers of hoax calls and vandalism to youngsters was showcased at a special event on Friday 9th February 2007.
Called 'Your Choice', the project is unique in the UK and involves a rap group, drama workshops, Who Wants to Be A Millionaire-style competition, a web detective's game, vehicle tour and interaction with police horses, drugs dogs, fire fighters, and paramedics.
The aim is for young people to think about the consequences of their actions.
Councillor Mark Dowd, Chair of Merseytravel, who helped organise the event alongside a number of key Merseyside agencies, said: "This project is unique in its approach and helps children to realise that there are consequences to every action and that they have a choice."
"Trespassing on train tracks, hoax phone calls, throwing stones at buses and trains and vandalism can all cost lives."
Councillor Dave Antrobus, executive member for Community Safety, said: "Education is the key to teaching youngsters the dangers of their actions and this is a really valuable project. It could well help prevent a serious injury and even prove to be a lifesaver."
During the showcase, rap group Systems D sang the "Your Choice" rap; using modern music to promote serious messages about keeping safe, drinking alcohol and vandalism.
The Mojo Theatre Company from Kirkby performed a play about a boy called Charlie who skips school, plays on train tracks and pays the price with disastrous consequences.
The Your Choice events are supported by a number of key Merseyside agencies including Merseytravel, Citysafe, Merseyside Police, British Transport Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Mersey Regional Ambulance Service, bus operators Arriva and Stagecoach, schools and Merseyside's local authorities.
As part of the showcase, the partnership launched a new website based around the event and dedicated to Merseyside's young people. The website is www.yourchoiceconference.org.uk
For more information contact:
Merseytravel's Press Office -Tel: 0151 330 1151
Liverpool City Council's Community Safety Team:
Sandra Roscoe : sandra.roscoe@liverpool.gov.uk
Ian Smillie: ian.smillie@liverpool.gov.uk
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