Last updated 15:55, Wednesday, 07 May 2008

ALL of Cumbria’s secondary schools could have designated police officers within two years.

The first, PC Phil Bell, has moved into his office at North Cumbria Technology College in Carlisle in a move that will eventually be followed up by schools across the county.

Announcing the scheme last week, police stress it is not due to any crime problems at schools, but an effort to promote respect and responsibility among pupils.

NCTC has been chosen because, along with St Aidan’s School, it is set to become Carlisle’s first academy in September.

The scheme could see all 42 secondary schools have a designated officer by about 2010 but not all will be based permanently at some schools.

Police and local authorities would look at each school individually and practical issues such as space would be taken into account.

Insp Dave Willets said: “The direct connection with young people will provide us with a better understanding of the issues they face.

“It will help us to be more effective in the help and support we can provide for them where they live and not just inside the school gates.

“This is a great opportunity to build and develop existing relationships between Cumbria Constabulary and school communities.

“Over the next two years we will formalise working arrangements between our local policing teams and all schools in Cumbria.

“This programme offers an opportunity to engage with young people in our schools and raise further awareness of the police Respect campaign.”

The move is part of the government’s national Safer Schools Partnership programme, which encourages police and young people to build good relationships, trust and respect.