As the summer holidays loom large, local authorities are bracing for a surge in anti-social behaviour (ASB) among young people.
That’s why the Home Office has rolled out Safe4Summer, part of its wider effort to strengthen neighbourhood policing and prevent youth-related ASB.
It’s also why private security firm ASEL has launched its own initiative – STEP UP – which includes a focus on early intervention, education, and positive engagement with school-age children. School visits are a key part of the programme.
ASEL’s Head of Guarding, Rob Cook, will visit Oasis Academy Clarksfield in Oldham tomorrow (Friday) to speak with students about making positive choices, seeking support, and understanding the role of security officers in their communities.
Cook’s message is clear: the decisions young people make today directly shape their future – particularly around employment and opportunity.
These sessions are arranged to build trust and foster stronger relationships between students, schools, and the communities ASEL serves.
Students are also encouraged to see security officers not simply as authority figures, but as approachable, trusted adults who can provide help if they feel pressured, unsafe, or unsure about a situation.
A similar visit recently in Market Deeping (above), Lincolnshire, prompted lively engagement.
Students asked thoughtful questions, and the school provided glowing feedback on the session’s impact.
Six of Oldham’s town centres are part of the government’s Safe4Summer scheme, which strives to make the region “safer and more desirable”.
ASEL’s initiative is targeting areas where youth ASB is known to spike – offering early engagement and positive guidance before the school gates close for summer.
Rob Cook, Head of Guarding at ASEL, said: “This initiative is about more than reducing incidents – it's about building trust. If we can reach young people early and help them see that we’re here to support them, not just enforce rules, we can positively shape futures and strengthen communities.
"We’re proud to take this step forward in collaboration with local schools.”
ASEL said it remains committed to making a difference – not only by protecting property, but by investing in the future of the communities it serves
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