I've just had a long but very (very) interesting chat with a Police officer regarding certain 'things' that have happened over the last year or so (this comment made without wanting to resurrect any previous threads - please).
One of the areas which many police forces are becoming increasingly concerned about in terms of child protection is the 'annual gathering' of likeminded souls (such as Landie shows).
Police feel that there is often a false sense of security at such events born of the experience that 'nothing has happened in the past'.
This raises interesting and challenging questions as to how a balance may be achieved which maintains the informality and 'fun' of such events whilst best protecting children from harm.
I made my thoughts clear on this
I'd like to see all show organisers writing into their Risk Assessment and show informational literature clear yet concise, non-alarming warnings that it may not always be a good idea to let children roam unattended. I'd also like to see individual clubs making their members aware of the potential dangers - again, in a way that does not cause undue concern or panic.
Given that I am probably not the best person to 'start a campaign', would others care to help pass on the message, maybe ask your own club if they'd mind placing such a note in the club magazine?
I'd also guess that a few unconnected letters to show organisers asking them to take such issues on board in a sensitive manner would not go amiss - anyone care to write such a letter?