IN RESPECT of pending local authority cuts and the reduction of police power, I believe we, the public, can use this as an important opportunity to reduce crime dramatically.

Some crime has been reduced locally, but I believe it can be reduced further if each member of the public understands their importance, through how they relate to people on the street.

Early crime prevention is something we can each help to achieve through changing our attitudes towards people of all ages.

Children need to feel welcome in their community and encouraged to develop a positive identity early in their lives.

Too often members of the public see children and their families through negative eyes. Too often they do not acquire an independent identity, nor are able to relate on a one-to-one basis.

This is the root of crime. If a child grows up never feeling respected, they cannot find their way in life constructively.

Too often, adults wait to be respected, instead of showing respect. But once people feel respected they change their behaviour overnight, no matter what their age.

Blame has never helped anyone. Nor does it allow for responsive and positive behaviour to develop.

Effective crime prevention is too often blocked because people need status so badly, instead of relating to people of all ages on equal terms.

People dealing with crime place themselves in an impersonal position, creating an invisible barrier. Police officers and social workers should build on relationships in their communities.

It is cost effective to be proactive, showing, by example, how even the most antisocial of people change their behaviour when approached with respect.

This works best when a person is encouraged to follow a creative interest. It allows a foundation around which a person’s life can be built.

Margie McGregor, Wootton, Woodstock