Police Educate Over 500 Helston Pupils on Antisocial Behaviour

Over 500 Children in Helston Schools Take Part in Police Sessions on Antisocial Behaviour

More than 500 primary school children across Helston and surrounding rural areas have taken part in sessions run by police on antisocial behaviour (ASB), designed to help them understand the consequences of their actions from an early age.

The sessions, aimed at 10 to 11-year-olds across 20 different schools, focused on what antisocial behaviour looks like in their communities and how it can negatively affect others.

Why Age 10 Matters

PCSO Julia Berry, who organised and delivered the sessions, explained:

“The age of criminal responsibility is 10 years old which is why chatting with this age group is so important.”

The sessions weren’t about scaring children, but giving them the knowledge they need to make informed, safe choices.

“We’re committed to early education and prevention,” said Julia. “We want to make sure our future citizens make safe choices now and as they grow older and this work is key in helping us achieve that.”

Topics Covered in the Sessions

Among the topics discussed were the effects of peer pressure, as well as common behaviours like ‘ding dong ditch’ — where individuals ring someone’s doorbell and run off — which can fall under the category of ASB.

“This isn’t about scaring young people. It’s simply about educating them so they have all the tools they need to make safe decisions and encourage their friends to do the same,” Julia added.

“Not only that, but it’s a great way to connect with students who may have never met someone from the police before.”

Ongoing Work Across Cornwall

The sessions form part of the neighbourhood police team’s broader work to prevent antisocial behaviour in communities and will continue throughout 2025. Alongside education, police are also carrying out high visibility patrols, investigations and targeted operations to identify and address those causing harm.