Commissioner signs up to Youth Charter

The Youth Charter for Police and Crime Commissioners is written by young people and spells out principles for good engagement between Commissioners and local youngsters.

In Wales, the signing of the youth charters by the Police and Crime Commissioners has been instigated by the Council for Wales of Voluntary Youth Services.

By signing the charter, Mr Johnston has pledged to:

• make himself accessible to young people and provide appropriate ways for young people to express their concerns to him
• treat all young people as citizens, valuing their interests and opinions as much as any other group in the community
• provide an equal platform for all members of the community, including minorities and those who are marginalised
• establish a way of meaningful representation of young people's views
• use his influence as Police and Crime Commissioner to support the police force to engage positively with all young people
• to continue with the on going engagement with existing local youth groups

Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston said: "It is essential for Commissioners to engage with young people in the most appropriate and effective way. Reaching youngsters early and implementing intervention strategies will prevent offending and provide youngsters, who have an extremely valid contribution to make to local communities, with the best opportunities to reach their potential"