Why Do Some Young People Not Trust the Police?
The police are here to help keep us safe. They are meant to prevent crime and respond to emergencies. But some people find it difficult to trust them. This blog looks at some reasons why.
What is trust?
Trust is when you believe someone is honest and will do the right thing. When we talk about trusting the police, it means believing they will treat everyone fairly. It means knowing they will protect you and listen to your concerns. Everyone deserves to feel this way.
Bad experiences
Sometimes, people or their families have negative experiences with the police. Maybe a police interaction felt unfair, or they felt like they weren’t listened to. These experiences can make it difficult to trust the police in the future. If a lot of people in a community have similar negative experiences, it can lead to a general lack of trust in the police.
Seeing what happens to others
It’s not just about your own experiences. You might see or hear about how the police treat other people. News stories, social media, or even stories from friends can show things that make you doubt the police. For example, some people feel that certain groups are treated differently by the police. This is known as bias (which means having a strong feeling or opinion that unfairly prefers one thing or person over another). If people feel they are being treated unfairly because of their background, it damages trust.
Worries about being believed
For children and young people, a big reason for not trusting the police could be the fear of not being taken seriously. You might worry that if you report something, the police won’t believe you. This can be even more true if the issue is sensitive or involves an adult. It’s important to remember that police officers are trained to take all reports seriously. If you don’t feel heard, there are ways to report this, too.
The police are changing
The police know that trust is important, and they are working to make things better. They want to understand why some people feel unsure and are trying to be more open and fair. They are working on better training to avoid bias and ensure everyone is treated with respect. They also have ways to complain if you feel that a police officer has acted badly. This means that the police are taking accountability (being responsible for their actions).
What can I do if I need help?
If you need help and are unsure about calling the police, you have options.
Meic is here to listen and help you work out what to do next. We can talk about your worries and can help you know and understand your rights. We can even help you find other services.
You can also talk to a trusted adult. This could be a parent, a teacher, or a youth worker.
If you do need the police, remember you can ask for someone to be with you. Knowing your rights is also important. The police have rules they must follow.
It’s okay to feel unsure
Your feelings are valid. It’s important to understand why you or others might not trust the police. Knowing this helps everyone work towards a safer, fairer Wales. If you’re struggling, Meic is here for you.
You can contact us anonymously, and we won’t judge you or your situation.
