PFCC Roger Hirst highlights youth safety at “Stay Safe, Stay Smart” Family Awareness Event in Ongar

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, joined a panel of expert speakers at the “Stay Safe, Stay Smart: Family Safety Awareness” event held in Ongar on Wednesday, 28th May.

The event, organised by Cllr Mary Dadd from Epping Forest District Council, brought together local families, community volunteers and safety professionals to promote awareness and practical advice on keeping young people safe, identifying scammers as well as the benefits of joining the Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Mr Hirst addressed attendees on the importance of safeguarding children and young people, as well as tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG), anti-social behaviour (ASB), and building safer communities through early intervention and education.

He was joined by representatives from the NSPCC, Childline, Barclays Bank, the Essex Police Fraud Team and local Neighbourhood Watch who each delivered informative sessions on topics ranging from educating young people about staying safe to how to spot the signs of financial fraud and scams.

Speaking at the event, Roger Hirst said: “Safe, secure communities are the bedrock on which we build well being and prosperity for all. Events like this are vital in equipping people with the knowledge and tools they need to protect children, not fall victim to scammers and to highlight the importance of reporting crime.”