An interactive engagement project allowing children to step into the shoes of their local community policing team is to be launched in Thringstone and Whitwick.

'Mini Police' is being backed by Leicestershire's Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews and is designed to give primary school children a positive and fun introduction to the work of police officers and encourage their involvement in volunteering.

The scheme is part of the National Volunteer Police Cadets (NVPC) programme and delivered to young people in Year 5 to build their confidence and trust in the work of the Police and develop their sense of social justice and moral responsibility.

Initially, Mini Police will be rolled out to Leicestershire's three People Zones – Thringstone and Whitwick, the Bell Foundry estate in Loughborough and New Parks in West Leicester.

The Police say these are areas where communities are actively encouraged to come together with public, private and third sector organisations to resolve problems and utilise the talents, skills and strengths of local people to build a safe and positive future. 

Mr Matthews said: "I'm really excited about the Mini Police scheme and the opportunities it provides for police to connect with the younger generation.

Rupert Matthews

"This is a fun and imaginative project that engages pupils on a level they relate to and understand. Children not only learn about the exciting and challenging work their local policing team undertakes to protect them, they will also have the opportunity to get involved and take responsibility for making their communities safe – qualities and skills that will last them a lifetime.

"Through this project, we will be able to dispel some of the myths or perceived barriers young people may have about policing and change their perspectives so they are more likely to be supportive of the police in the future. Increasing confidence and trust in the Police is a vital part of my safety plans and the earlier this work can get underway, the better."

A police officer has been appointed to manage the pilot and the Force is looking to launch later in the Autumn within three schools – one from each People Zone – with 30 children in each programme.

Mini Police will include a programme of lesson plans and mini projects delivered in school hours as part of their weekly lessons. It will be delivered by the project coordinator and local PCSOs.