Important message from your local Safer Neighbourhood Team - Withington

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please take a moment to read this important message from your local Safer Neighbourhood Team and discuss it with your child(ren).

Over recent months, concerns have been raised about anti-social behaviour in Withington, including campfires, excessive noise, and foul language coming from young people hanging out at the Coppice.

We totally get it – spending time outdoors with friends is a great way to enjoy the summer! We want to encourage young people to make the most of our local outdoor spaces and enjoy the benefits of spending time away from screens. The Village Hall and its surrounding facilities are valued community spaces that are there for everyone to enjoy.

However, we’d like to remind young people to be mindful of their behaviour and how it affects others. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re having fun with friends, but it’s important to remember that noise levels and behaviour can sometimes impact the people living nearby and others trying to enjoy the area.

Local residents are finding the excessive noise and foul language unsettling and are becoming increasingly concerned about fires being lit close to their homes.

The Dangers of Lighting Fires

We are particularly concerned about reports of campfires being lit in the Coppice. While a small campfire may seem harmless, even the smallest fire can become dangerous very quickly! Especially as it has been a warm, dry summer so far.

There are a number of homes located close by, and a fire that spreads beyond control could put people, property and wildlife at risk.

Sadly, there have been a number of significant house fires across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire region in recent months. These incidents serve as an important reminder of the devastating impact a fire can have on individuals, families and communities.

Please help us keep your community safe!

We are not asking young people to stop meeting friends or enjoying the outdoors. We simply ask that everyone does so safely and respectfully.

Thank you for taking the time to read and discuss this message.

The Hereford Rural North Team