Just Another Day: Anti-Social Behaviour With Far Reaching Consequences
“I could’ve died, the other kid could’ve died, one of the firefighters could’ve died.”
Our new video resource, created in partnership with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, has now been released as part of an educational package for schools and youth clubs. It was officially launched to youth organisations and schools at a community safety event at South Shields Fire Station, where feedback on its impact was outstanding.
The resource aims to help young people understand the serious dangers of setting fires, which account for a high percentage of fires in the Tyne & Wear area. It is already having a notable effect in schools.
Comprehensive lesson plans have been developed to accompany the film, and it will soon be available nationally on the UK-wide StayWise platform, allowing schools across the country to use it. Fire-setting behaviour is rarely without trauma for the families involved, making this an important tool for early intervention and education.
“It’s short and the right length for school assemblies. It reflects the local context and shows young people did it for entertainment. It’s a credit to you — a fantastic resource. It’s cinematic! We’re seeing a huge increase in fire-setting for likes on social media.”
— Graeme Littlewood, Senior Community Safety Officer, South Tyneside Council
“I think it’s amazing. Really succinct. I would like it to be shown to targeted groups of young people too, in partnership with our team.”
— Melanie Soutar, Head of Adolescent Services, South Tyneside Council
Alan Darcy, Safeguarding Manager and the film’s commissioner, expressed enthusiasm about working with anyone who can help ensure the resource becomes a valuable discussion point for young people.
Attendees also suggested innovative ways to expand its reach, including the use of VR headsets to further immerse and engage young audiences.
For access to the resource or further information, please contact:
Safeguarding@twfire.gov.uk
This project is the latest in our series of innovative AI-based DigitalMe animations, for which we recently won the Northern Power Women’s Tech for Good Award, both for our creative and empowering use of AI in communities that are largely excluded digitally. For more information on projects similar to this, click here.