Operation Lighthouse: Safeguarding young people in Poulton and Fleetwood

    Operation Lighthouse is a joint initiative between Wyre Police and their exploitation team, Wyre Community Partnership, Lancashire Children’s Social Care, Lancashire Contextual Health Team and Targeted Youth.

    The operation promotes the safeguarding of young people on the streets or public areas who may be classed as vulnerable or at risk of significant harm. This includes young people who may be consuming alcohol or other intoxicants and engaging in anti-social behaviour.

    Op Lighthouse aims to engage with parents, guardians and carers of these young people to ensure that they are physically, mentally, emotionally and sexually healthy, adopting healthy lifestyles and choosing not to take illegal drugs or alcohol.

    Last month, officers and partner services visited hotspot areas in Poulton and Fleetwood and engaged with over 100 young people.

    Searches were made under the Misuse of Drugs Act, and disruptions were made to groups as large as 60 young people committing anti-social behaviour in the street.

    Children at Milton Street Community Centre provided great feedback about the operation, stating that they felt a safe and secure presence during the evenings.

    Inspector Martin Wyatt said: “We engaged with over 100 young people who were out in Fleetwood. In five cases, we prevented harm by removing children to a place of safety. These children were at risk of harm through alcohol and substance use.

    “We involved parents and introduced families to agencies who are able to provide further support where necessary.

    “My officers frequently work with Wyre Council, Social Care and local youth groups to prevent harm and reduce ASB. We will conduct operations such as this regularly and remove children from potentially harmful situations. Our pledge is to keep young people safe in Wyre.”

    The operation will be conducted again in January 2023.

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