Get a grip of your kids, councillor tells parents

A councillor has urged parents to "get a grip" and "have a word" after fire crews, bus drivers and retail park customers were abused by children as young as 10.

Mary Rasmussen has been a councillor in the Speke area of Liverpool for nearly 20 years.

While pointing out that Speke was "a cracking place to live", she said a group of about 20 youths - thought to be aged between 10 and 16 - had recently been responsible for a lot of anti-social behaviour.

Ch Insp Jemma Shaw, of Merseyside Police, said reported incidents included hate crimes, criminal damage, stones being thrown at buses, and youths riding bicycles dangerously in front of buses.

Bus companies said their drivers had been forced to divert services following incidents.

Local people have taken to social media to complain that not enough is being done to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Mrs Rasmussen said work was going on "behind the scenes" and urged people to report incidents to police or Crimestoppers.

She asked residents to have "faith and patience" because "things are happening - it will be dealt with".

She said some parents would "definitely know what their children are doing".

In a direct appeal to them, she said: "There's so much for kids to do in Speke.

"The Venny (an adventure playground) which is open late, one of the best boxing clubs in Liverpool, more dance troupes than anywhere else in Liverpool, numerous football teams.

"Don't tell me there's nothing in Speke. I've raised my kids there, my grandchildren and my great-grandchildren.

"Don't let the minority taint your view of Speke."

Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and South Liverpool Homes - the largest social landlord in the area - have confirmed they are meeting regularly to monitor the problem.

As well as providing high-visibility patrols in the area, Ch Insp Shaw said Merseyside Police would speak to the parents of children identified as having taken part in anti-social behaviour.

However, she ruled out seeking a dispersal order for Speke.

Police can use dispersal orders to direct people suspected of causing nuisance, harassment or distress away from a specified area for up to 48 hours.

"It is a short-term measure," said Ch Insp Shaw, "and therefore we don't see it as a long term solution."

She said a public space protection order was one possible option for the area.

A South Liverpool Homes representative said the housing association was working with police to tackle "the root causes of this behaviour as well as ensuring long-lasting strategies are put in place".

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