Tram safety campaign targets city’s schoolchildren

The operator of Nottingham’s popular tram network has joined forces with a local community group to deliver a powerful safety message aimed at local youngsters.

Through community outreach, activities and mentoring, The Pythian Club has found an innovative and effective way of engaging with young people and is working with NET to help tackle anti-social behaviour around the tram network, and in the communities it serves.

Now the relationship has been taken to the next level with a series of joint presentations in local schools that highlight the impact of such activity on other members of the travelling public and those working on the tramway.

The dangers of fooling around on board trams, at stops and close to the tracks is also driven home as part of the ‘You Versus Trams’ initiative.

Trevor Stocker, NET Head of Operations, explained: “We have worked with the Club for several years, and are proud to be associated with an organisation that’s providing positive pathways for young people and shares our own ambition to help make Nottingham a great place to live, work or visit.

“This latest initiative has provided the opportunity for members of The Pythian Club and NET teams to engage with young people in local primary and secondary schools. As well as drawing their attention to the consequences of unacceptable behaviour, they were able to offer advice on how to call for help, should they need it, while using the tram.”

The presentation has already been well received by more than 120 pupils across five Nottingham schools, with NET drivers and customer services staff – alongside representatives from The Pythian Club – on hand to answer questions from youngsters and their teachers.

Founded in 2014 by CEO Benjamin Rosser, The Pythian Club aims to help drive social action, social mobility and social equity by supporting young people to thrive.

Kelly Puleston, The Pythian Club Project Manager, commented: “The ‘You Versus Tram’ presentation is much more than a health and safety information programme, it’s a reflection of the shared commitment both NET and The Pythian Club have towards active, early, preventative intervention and an on-going learning tool.

“We are delighted with the response we have received from both teachers and their pupils and look forward to delivering this to more schools in the coming weeks and months.”

One of the schools to benefit from the initiative has been Victoria Primary School and head teacher, Anna Froggatt, commented: “This safety message is particularly relevant in our school because of where we are based, in the Meadows.

“Our over-riding priority is always the wellbeing of our pupils and the presentation certainly provided some valuable advice that will help them stay safe around the tramway."