A special constable who has gone out of his way to connect with teenagers has been recognised.
Last year, Andy Culshaw was named Isle of Man Newspapers’ Community Police Officer of the Year for his work with groups in the work.
He has now been nominated for this year’s award by Claire Gale, who says her daughter Kaitlin was inspired by an event at Ramsey town hall he organised in November. ASK Ramsey was attended by over 100 people, who sought advice and information from organisations including the police, Youth Justice Team, Alcohol Advisory Service and the Drug and Alcohol Team.
Claire, of Ramsey, explained that Kaitlin, 14, was a typical teenager of the electronic generation: ‘While Kaitlin mooched round looking for freebies there were moments of inspiration.
‘An example of this was when she tried on the beer goggles and tried to walk in a straight line.
‘Another was talking to the Duke of Edinburgh award lady. Kaitlin has signed up and is doing her bronze award with Ramsey Grammar School. If events like this can inspire one young person they have been worth the hard work.’
She added: ‘In these cost cutting times it is the enthusiasm and motivation of officers like Andy that keep police visible in the community.’
Andy said: ‘ I recognised a gap where youths felt that they may not know the correct people to ask “tricky questions” which was the reason for bringing the people to them so it makes us all approachable.
‘The questions I get asked whilst out and about can only be answered to the best of my knowledge but to get the correct people was brilliant and such a variety and range of knowledge.’
ASK Douglas will take place at the Strand Shopping Centre on April 8. For more details see the ASK Douglas drop in event 2016 Facebook page.