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POPULAR social-networking site Facebook is the latest tool to be used by police in their effort to communicate with Saffron Walden youngsters.

A new Facebook group which allows young people to talk directly with officers from the Uttlesford Youth Team, based at Saffron Walden Police Station, will be launched on Monday.

Organiser of the scheme Sgt Lindsay Beckman said: "This is a way for young people to appeal for help and support.

"There will be links to support agencies for drugs and alcohol as well as the opportunity to speak confidentially with officers."

At the beginning of next week Facebook users will be able to access the group by searching for "Uttlesford Youth Team". Details of when officers will be online to chat will be displayed on the site.

Sgt Beckman as well as officers PC Ryan McNamara, PC Lisa Cox and PC Katheryn Nessling will run the site and be available to talk at various times.

Insp Kevin Wakefield said that the new initiative was a sign that his officers were "moving with the times".

He added: "It will give young people the opportunity to speak to police using a medium of communication which is comfortable to them without the concerns of peer pressure.

"Sometimes there are perceived barriers between the police and the youth community and this initiative is about bridging that gap."

The site will answer questions like 'What is criminal damage?' and 'What happens when you get arrested?' as well as any other questions that teenagers might have about the law. Different careers within the police force will be highlighted and upcoming youth events will be promoted.

The Uttlesford Youth Team Facebook group is a police-led initiative which will be trialled for a period before it becomes a permanent tool.

Do you think this idea will be a benefit to the young people of Saffron Walden? Let us know by emailing alistair.nelson@archant.co.uk