Projects to keep young people safe were at the top of the list as Sandwell’s Safer 6 campaign swung into action in Oldbury.

Clean-ups also saw rubbish cleared by offenders as well as volunteer litter picks. Each of Sandwell’s six towns has a focus week during the six-week Safer 6 campaign, which promotes safety, crime prevention and healthy living to all ages.

Oldbury Local office held an information roadshow in Oldbury Civic Square, which saw a wide range of Safer Sandwell partner organisations promoting the services and support they offer.

More than 70 pupils from Christ Church C of E Primary School came along, learning about safety. They even got the chance to sit in a police car and fire engine and climb aboard the Youth Bus and Eco Bus. Among the Oldbury week’s many highlights:

• Police – supported by the fire service, schools and Deputy Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Carol Goult – launched the ‘Bin the Knife: Save a Life’ wristbands project. Wristbands are being distributed to thousands of students in local schools to encourage solidarity against carrying knives. Police also encouraged people to dispose of knives in the weapons surrender bin at Sainsbury’s Oldbury.
   
• Police held a road safety operation at Birchley Island, stopping more than 20 vehicles. Two vehicles were seized for insurance and licence issues, one was issued with prohibition notice for bald tyres.
   
• Road safety officers gave safety tips to pupils at Rounds Green Primary School.
   
• A walkabout was held in the Broadwell Road/Flash Road area raising awareness to residents about potential rogue traders.
   
• The council’s private sector housing team promoted advice for tenants and landlords about empty homes at an information stand in the main foyer of Sandwell Council House, Oldbury.

Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Oldbury town chair, said:

“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to these results, including all the organisations and volunteers involved.

"Safer 6 is all about providing extra information and reassurance to residents, to help them feel safer and let them know all the support that’s available in Sandwell.”

The Oldbury 'Safer 6' week ran from 15th - 21st October. For more information, check the 'Safer 6' webpage.