Groups of young people pushed out their comfort zone in 12-mile walk in the dark

Children from across the Humberside region embarked on a late-night walk in the dark to learn about how emergency services work together when someone needs help.

Supported by over 100 volunteers, including youth workers from the Young and Safe team in the Council, they set off on a hike from Brantingham Dale in East Yorkshire on Saturday, 28 February. Every year has a particular theme, with this year’s being arson and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

To help them learn and build confidence along the journey, teams took part in fun, realistic challenges. It also encouraged them to think about positive choices and how they can support their friends and community when things get difficult.

Leading on the initiative, Katie Hardy from our Community Safety Unit, said: “The project really couldn’t go ahead each year without the support of our partners and those who kindly donate their time, expertise and equipment.

“We even had smoke simulation goggles loaned to us by Ruth Lee and Fireware to make our challenges more realistic. We are lucky to have a well establish network and would like to thank everyone who supports us and the young people.”

The overnight event, organised by Humberside Police’s Community Safety Unit, is just one example of how the Young and Safe team have been working with the community to educate and improve the lives of the younger generation.

For example, officers are currently working with Stagecoach East Midlands to help bus users “Respect the Ride”. This initiative aims to teach young people about how ASB impacts the buses and what they can do to make every journey as safe as possible.

For Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio of Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “These events are just one way that ourselves and our partners are engaging with young people to make sure they’re aware of the impact these types of problems can have on everyday life.

“The Night Challenge is also a great way to promote team building and help them gain social skills by working with their peers and problem solving along the way. Our Young and Safe team have done a brilliant job by getting involved and it’s great to see everyone working together to get the job done.”

Manager of the Community Safety Unit Adil Khan added: “Every year we work hard to create an experience that pushes the boundaries and helps young people really understand the work we do collectively to keep themselves and our communities safe.

“By presenting both sides of the story, this year’s event highlighted to the young people who attended the true cost of ASB and arson. Outlining the devastating impact these can have not only on the local community but also for their own futures.”