Young people in the Fullarton area of Irvine want police to do more to tackle drug use and crime, a survey has revealed.
However, the analysis of views showed those under the age of 16 in the area generally have confidence in the police and recognise the service is there to keep them safe.
The survey was carried out as part of community confidence action research project.
Between February 20 and March 26, the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) and Police Scotland ran a survey in six local schools, with students from the Irvine Fullarton area, to gain views on policing from the Under-16s.
There were 72 comments when respondents were asked what they would like to see the police focus on in Irvine.
Many responses highlighted drug-related crime and drug use, with people noting that it made them feel unsafe.
A range of responses also expressed that there should be a focus on young people’s use of vapes, and the people selling vapes to them. There were also some responses which suggested there should be more police visibility at certain times in the town's shopping centre and at the beach.
Multiple pupils also noted that speeding causes damage to the community, and that general road safety should be a priority.
Across a range of responses, youngsters expressed that the police should respond to racism and sexism in the community.
Elsewhere in the survey, when asked if they had a general worry or problem outside of school, 33 per cent (26 pupils) would maybe phone 999 or 101 while 32 per cent (25 pupils) would go up and speak to a police officer.
A total of 16 per cent (13 pupils) replied that they wouldn't speak to police and the same number weren't sure what they would do.
Meanwhile, 62 per cent (49 pupils) acknowledged they would call the police straight away if they were in danger and needed help although six per cent (5 pupils) said they would not summon officers.
Of those who said they would not call cops straight away, respondents typically replied that they would contact a family member or guardian in the first instance.
The vast majority of respondents recognised the police would help them and that they would trust officers to be of assistance. Some pupils suggested the police should be nicer to them.
Irvine South councillor Christian Larsen reckons the survey was a worthwhile exercise and hailed pupils for their responses.
She said: "It is fantastic to see our young people in Fullarton actively engaging in the community confidence action research project survey.
"These results will provide the police with invaluable information in terms of what they already do well and in what areas of policing the community feel they have concerns about.
"I am pleased to see so many young people using their voice so confidently.”
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