STRANGER REPORT- Important Message  

Dear Parents/Carers

Higham Lane school recently sent out this letter to students, Please could you share the following information with your children if they walk to or from school on their own:

I received a stranger report some time ago concerning a man who had approached a student on St Nicholas Park and another in Bedworth, whose behaviour was suspicious.  At the time the description given was a man in a white Volkswagen Caddy van; he was a quite tall, black male of large build with shoulder length dreadlocks, with a scar on his right cheek and a silver piercing in his right ear. 

Since this report, several more students have come forward to report suspicious behaviour in a variety of locations including Horeston Park on Tiverton Drive and Buttermere Park.  The descriptions have been similar and the man has either been alone or in a group of around 3 males.  The students were worried that they may have been being followed and reports have been made to the Police.  Our Policer Community Support Officer (PCSO) has increased patrols around the areas mentioned.

Our PCSO has given advice that students should try to walk/cycle in pairs or groups and has asked that if you were to be approached, that you call 999 and advise the operator of your location.

I would also like to remind you of the importance of being careful when you are out. If you walk to and from school, try to walk with friends in a group and never go anywhere with someone you don’t know. 

Remember:

• Try to avoid walking/cycling alone – especially after dark.
• Be aware of people around you.
• Stay to well-lit roads or main paths.
• If you feel uncomfortable and you are able to, go to the home of a friend if nearby and ask for help or to a local shop and tell them you are worried.
• Do not be tricked into invitations to accompany someone you do not know, sit in someone’s car or go to their house. Seek help immediately if anyone does this.
• If someone did try to grab you it is ok to break all the rules of politeness to others e.g. scream, kick, punch, bite etc to draw attention and alert others to the fact that you are in danger.
• Please also remember that sometimes a stranger can be the only person who can help us and is a far safer option than not talking to anyone; if you feel uncomfortable in any situation go to the nearest public building, for example a shop, or a public place.  Whilst it is important we remain vigilant it is equally important to remember that not ALL strangers are “bad”.
• Tell an adult straight away if you have any concerns.

Thank you and keep safe.

Many thanks

Mrs J. Kershaw