Play to raise awareness of exploitation delivered in schools

Sessions are continuing in schools across the District, to raise awareness and understanding of key issues facing young people.

Loudmouth Education and Training have been commissioned by the Community Safety Team to run theatre based educational programmes in schools across Cannock Chase. Themes and delivery are varied according to age, and the programme uses drama and discussion to enable learning on a wide range of issues. These include child sexual exploitation, grooming, exploitation into crime, knife crime, extremism, grooming, trafficking and alcohol abuse.

The latest school to be visited was Cardinal Griffin Catholic College in Cannock. They received a performance of ‘Working for Marcus’ which focuses on exploitation, including child sexual exploitation and County Lines.

Principal Mrs Hermione Gibson said “Our Year 8 students were thoroughly engaged in the performance and workshops led by Loudmouth. We were delighted to be able to support this important educational opportunity."

Councillor Jo Elson, Portfolio Leader for Community Wellbeing said “These are difficult issues, but ones which unfortunately do occur in wider society. We cannot shy away from sensitive topics. These performances help to raise awareness and encourage healthy conversation, which is crucial for safeguarding our young people.”

The initiative has been funded from the Council’s Locality Deal Fund - a fund provided by the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office.

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said “The Locality Deal Fund is designed to give a boost to local initiatives addressing community safety-related concerns, building on the great work they are already doing.  

“I’m pleased to see the fund being used to support this important project, which is helping to raise awareness of the issue of criminal exploitation in a way that is accessible and engaging for young people.”