Why language matters

I had a letter the other day from the Howard League for Penal Reform.

The organisation was asking Police and Crime Commissioner candidates not to demonise young people in talking about crime and policing.

I know from my time as a Councillor for Cressington and continuing work in South Liverpool that there are times when people feel alarmed by groups of young people. And not all young people are angels of course.

But it's vital that this doesn't translate into blaming young people for everything

It's easy media (and sadly political) shorthand to imply that all our anti social behaviour problems would disappear if only the young people stayed inside.

But the problem with lazy language like that is not only is it unfair to the vast majority of young people, it also increases fear of crime among those who see them.

So I hope we'll all be minding our language in this campaign.