Schools in towns plagued by youth crime have written to parents who are concerned for their children’s safety.

The letter, sent on Tuesday, was signed by 11 headteachers at schools in the Worthing, Shoreham and Littlehampton areas addressing “ongoing reports of violence and antisocial behaviour”.

Headteachers say they are doing everything in their powers “to keep our students safe” – including working with Sussex Police, youth justice and other children’s services in the area.

It comes as The Argus reported on a spate of youth crime in town centres, with children known to use the Worthing to Hove railway line and shoplift from nearby businesses.

The letter asks for parents and carers to support schools by ensuring they know where their child is at all times.

It warns that incidents have happened in parks, trains, railway stations, car parks and town centres.

The letter asks parents to make sure their children “avoid situations where there are individuals who may cause harm to others”.

One parent told The Argus they now drive their children to places rather than let them go out alone.

He said: “As much as we want to see our children out and about, it’s a relief to see them stuck indoors playing Xbox because at least they’re safe there.

“We’re not stopping them going out, if they go to the gym we tend to drive them there instead of letting them cycle. It’s just a safer option. It’s a difficult balance.

“We felt very uncomfortable when they went to the fireworks on their own. We’re definitely more fearful.

“There are a lot more parents picking their children up now when they didn’t before. Parents are also putting apps on their children’s phones to know where they are."

The letter said that parents should encourage children to report and “worrying or criminal events” to Sussex Police.

It says that any videos or images of criminal behaviour that children may receive on social media should be reported to the police.

The Argus: The school wrote in the letter that they want to see the situation change for the betterThe school wrote in the letter that they want to see the situation change for the better (Image: Canva)

 

The letter added: “We know that by working together with you, our wider community, we will have a greater chance of making a positive impact.

“We remain fully committed to prioritising the safeguarding of all children and young people and are determined to see this situation changed for the better.”

A spokesman for West Sussex County Council said it is working with the 11 schools, Sussex Police and people in the community to “to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all those who attend, work at or live in the area”.

Sussex Police said it is working to tackle “youth violence and antisocial behaviour”.

A spokesman said: “We understand the impact these incidents can have on individuals and communities, and we do not take it lightly.

“Our officers carry out regular patrols of these areas, and we would urge anyone with any concerns to approach them, or you can contact us online or call 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers or Fearless anonymously.”

The schools which have sent the letter to parents are Bohunt School in Worthing, Davison CE High School for Girls, Durrington High School, Steyning Grammar School, Shoreham Academy, Sir Robert Woodard Academy, St Andrew’s CE High School, St Oscar Romero Catholic School, The Angmering School, The Littlehampton Academy and Worthing High School.