02 September 2008

Smith Urges Parents To 'Play Part' In Defeating Gang Culture

Parents need to step-up and play their part in combating the UK's hooligan culture, according to Home Secretary Jacqui Smith.

Ms Smith has appealed to parents to help tackle gang crime, and insisted families should be aware that teenagers "actually do" listen to advice given at home.

The Home Secretary said the plight of parents, struggling to deal with gang activity, motivated her to publish a booklet.

"Of course there are problems. There are people - some relatively young - who are willing to commit horrendous acts of violence.

"But what we also know is that we can change things by working together," said Ms Smith.

"I think that parents are a vital source of support both within communities and, specifically, to their own children and to young people," she added.

'The Gangs: You and Your Child' booklet provides parents with advice, on possible steps they can take, should they suspect their child is in a gang.

It also offers support for families trying to deter youngsters from joining gangs.

The booklet tells parents to be aware of new nicknames or slang words used by their child.

It also suggests parents should be conscious of their children acquiring new possessions or money.

Taking an interest in their child's life, extended friends and pastimes are also recommended in the government booklet.

Parents are also encouraged to open-up discussions with troubled children and talk through their choices for being in a gang, rather than chastising them.

The booklet was developed in association with the body representing Chief Police Officers, as well as local councils and nationwide parenting groups.

The parenting resource is targeted at areas highlighted in the government's Tackling Gangs Action Programme - London, Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool.

(PR/JM)