Mental Health Amassadors - Y10 with GYG

Last month, representatives from the GGS Y10 Mental Health Ambassadors attended the IOPCC Building Bridges workshops, dedicating a total of nine hours to community service. This initiative was in collaboration with the GYG youth community in town, aimed at improving the relationship between young people and the police.

During the first session, we explored stop-and-search laws and the history of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPCC), which was established after the tragic death of Stephen Lawrence. The IOPCC is tasked with holding the police accountable, preventing corruption, and addressing abuse of power within law enforcement. In the second session, we participated in discussions surrounding scenarios of unlawful arrests, examining potential human errors that may lead to such situations, and strategies for de-escalating tense encounters. We also reflected on the challenges young people face when reporting issues to the police, and explored ways the police could improve their public image and engagement with the youth. The third session featured five police officers who shared personal stories about why they chose to pursue a career in law enforcement, along with their past experiences within the police force. The session included hands-on activities such as dressing up in police uniforms, trying on handcuffs, entering a police van, and activating the sirens. The workshop concluded with a discussion where the police officers sought our advice on how to connect with young people and be more approachable.

Attendees: Alex G, Ayo O, Debo A, Josh C, Malakai B, Nifemi S, Roshan S, along with 15 other GGS students.