Truancy operation takes place in the Borough
Schools liaison officers left the classroom and took to the streets in the run up towards Christmas as a joint operation took place to apprehend any pupils not in school.
School Community Police Officers, assisted by PCSOs and the Bridgend County Borough Council Education Welfare Department took to the streets and the shopping centers in an attempt to find truant pupils.
Bridgend Town Centre, Maesteg town Centre and the Bridgend shopping outlet (McArthur Glen) were patrolled simultaneously for the first time, and proved to be very successful.
PC Chris Warlow stated:
“Even though truancy is not a major problem in the Borough, it was felt that in the run up to Christmas it would be a worthwhile operation. It is important for children and young people to be aware that every officer will be vigilant in cutting down on truancy, so think twice before missing school”.
The good news is that most of the children and young people of school age that were stopped on the day had reasonable excuses for being absent. The Education Welfare department have stated that they will follow up all stops and confirm that excuses given are valid.