SCHOOLCHILDREN are set to play a "lead role" in a new community safety pilot scheme.

The Mini Blue-Light project at St Gabriel's Primary School in Leigh will see year six pupils learning about public and emergency services and their role in keeping communities safe.

In addition to this, they will be given the opportunity to voice their opinions on community issues such as anti-social behaviour, water safety, and crime prevention.

The project, overseen by Wigan Borough's Community Safety Partnership, will run throughout the school year.

This partnership is a collaboration between Wigan Council, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue, Greater Manchester Police, and the North West Ambulance Service.

Councillor Dane Anderton, cabinet portfolio holder for police, crime, and civil contingencies, said: "This scheme is a first for the region and represents what the Community Safety Partnership is all about.

"It will promote working together as partners to tackle community concerns and make the borough a safe place to live, work, relax, and learn.

"We’re incredibly pleased to deliver this pilot for the Mini Blue-Light scheme and look forward to hearing the important views of our young people and incorporating their voice into our approach."

The scheme will involve monthly sessions where the students will explore various community safety topics and gain an understanding of the people behind emergency services.

Billy Fenwick, head of prevention at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue service, said: "We’re excited to be involved in the new project in Wigan.

"We’ll be sharing important fire, road, and water safety information in an accessible and interactive way, helping pupils understand how services like ours work to keep people safe and make a positive difference in the community."

Inspector Sam Davies, from GMP’s Wigan district, said: "The Mini Blue-Light Scheme presents an exciting opportunity to connect with young people in our community and help them foster a deeper understanding of safety, trust, and our three services.

"This initiative not only reflects our commitment to improving engagement, but also our desire to build trust and confidence within the local area."

The project aims to inspire young people to take an active role in their safety and contribute to community responsibility.