Trust over trouble: changing the conversation with Oldham’s youth

A security firm has launched a groundbreaking initiative to help pupils make positive choices, stay out of trouble over the summer and to help them understand the role of security officers.

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 and ASEL’s Head of Guarding, Rob Cook, visited Oasis Academy Clarksfield in Oldham recently to speak to students about making positive choices, seeking support, and understanding the role of security officers in their communities.

Pictured: Rob, Head of Guarding at ASEL (far right), spoke to students as part of ASEL’s STEP UP initiative – a session that was well received by both staff and students.  

Cook’s message was clear: the decisions young people make today directly shape their future – particularly around employment and opportunity.  

These sessions aren’t designed to instil fear, but to build trust and foster stronger relationships between students, schools, and the communities ASEL serves.  

Cook also encouraged students 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.  

Zahra-Mae Mohamed, Assistant Principal of Inclusion at Oasis Academy Clarksfield, said: “The session delivered by ASEL was incredibly engaging and thought-provoking for our students. 

“It opened their eyes to the real-life consequences of anti-social behaviour and theft in a way that was both relatable and respectful. 

“The team connected brilliantly with the pupils, and the impact of the talk will stay with them for a long time.” 

Oldham’s town centre is part of the government’s Safe4Summer scheme, which strives to make the region “safer and more desirable”.  

ASEL’s initiative is aimed at targeting areas where youth ASB is known to spike – offering early engagement and positive guidance before the school gates closed 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 says it remains committed to making a difference – not only by protecting property, but by investing in the future of the communities it serves.”