PC Karen MacDonald
PC Karen MacDonald is Safer Schools
Partnership Office with Avon & Somerset Police.
Here she recalls some of her
experiences working with young people.
"I have been running Prince’s Trust xl clubs
in schools for over three years. There is a close fit between
my role as a schools officer and the aims of the xl programme. Very
often, the young people who are part of this programme are also
those with whom I would have significant contact in my role.
I found the regular and close contact I had
with the young people through xl helped to build up a better
relationship between them and the police.
Their behaviour in and out of school improved,
which had a positive impact on relationships between young people
and local officers on the streets. I was able to give structured
inputs on various aspects of crime and personal safety especially
relevant to young people, which I feel has helped them make choices
about their lives.
"One young lad who joined a club I was running
had been in trouble and was a regular truant. As a result, it was
unlikely he would get any qualifications. But as soon as he joined
the club and got over the fact that a police officer was running
it, he became enthusiastic and committed to xl. Because of this he
got a lot out of the club. He enjoyed the small group and quickly
realised that he had lots to offer; because of this he not only
motivated himself but also motivated other members of the
club. He obtained his Bronze award during the first year and
then his Silver in the second and was very proud of both
achievements. His attendance was almost 100%. He often used his
initiative and would look for the adviser in his spare time and do
extra work. He established some close friendships with other xl
club members. His success and commitment were so good that I
nominated him for a regional Young Achiever award."