Tiverton Youngsters Make Views of Crime Loud and Clear

YOUNG people in Tiverton have expressed their views on crime and anti-social behaviour loud and clear, in an ambitious art project in conjunction with the youth centre.

In partnership with the Mid Devon District Council housing department, and the Community Safety Local Action Group, the Devon County Council-run youth centre has commissioned a street art piece for the youth centre's wall in a bid to challenge anti-social behaviour. 

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for children and young people's health and wellbeing, said: "Crime and the perception of crime are issues that local communities feel very strongly about; and clearly it affects young people as well as the older population.

"This innovative project shows young people are prepared to take a stand against anti-social behaviour, and the result is a spectacular and emotive piece of artwork."

The idea for the piece of art came from young people at the centre, who worked with local artist iCan to impose their ideas on the wall of the centre, and came up with a powerful message, that 'you choose the path you walk'.

Young people felt the analogy of the three monkeys fitted with their values, that if you see, hear or speak the crime and do nothing about it by reporting it; then are you as bad as the person who is committing the crime, and effectively condoning their behaviour.

The artwork also incorporates the use of 'ASBO' as a reminder that if you have one, it places restrictions on the things that you can do and places you can visit.

Area Youth Worker Avril Machen, who co-ordinated the project on behalf of the young people, said: "We are really delighted with the results of this evocative and thought-provoking piece of art, which is testament to the young people involved.

"As young people are also victims of anti-social behaviour, this is a way of expressing their dislike for it, and it challenges people to think about the choices they want to take.

"It been a great opportunity for debate around the issues of crime and anti-social behaviour which we would like to share with the community."

James, 16, who took part said: "I feel it challenges the people to think about what they see, hear and speak and do nothing about it. we all should report crime no matter how small or big as it tells the criminals we won't accept this in our community and you can't get away with it"

Emma,15, added : "ABSO is not cool as you can not visit other counties if you have one."

Jack, 14, said : "Everyone can choose what path to take - no one makes you do crime, it is your choice!"