Negative stereotypes and misconceptions about the role police play in the community were put to rest by Footscray Police Youth Resource Officer, Senior Constable James Ridsdale during a recent visit to the FRESH program.

Students of FRESH, an alternative educational program that specialises in youth education, invited Sen Const Ridsdale to speak about the students’ rights and responsibilities in dealing with the police on Wednesday 12^th September as a conclusion their studies on authority and the law. 

FRESH Facilitator Manuela Suriyabandara said Sen Const Ridsdale’s visit provided a good platform for the students to interact with police in a positive environment, allowing them to tie in their theoretical investigation of the law with real world experience.

“It’s important that young people are aware of their rights and responsibilities and realise that police are on their side, not against them. Sen Const Ridsdale is a great ambassador as he is able to connect with the youth,” said Suriyabandara.

Sen Const Ridsdale said his visit provided an opportunity to further enhance the community partnership between Footscray Police and SpiritWest Services, the community division of the Western Bulldogs.

“Coming into a friendly, non-threatening environment to share information with youth is a great way to break down barriers and it helps give them a good image of the police,” he said.

Sen Const Ridsdale’s presentation followed a visit by the FRESH students to the Malmsbury Juvenile Justice Centre earlier in the week to further enhance their knowledge of the subject.

“It was quite an eye opening experience for the students and I think it helped give them a better understanding of the law and it’s consequences,” said Suriyabandara.