PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher visited St Colm’s High School in Twinbrook, west Belfast, on Thursday 23rd April. He viewed the school's new polytunnel project for growing fruit and vegetables to teach students about nutrition. The initiative receives funding from the PSNI proceeds of crime fund.

Boutcher attended with community and political representatives. He spoke to pupils about the project and policing matters in Northern Ireland. He stressed the PSNI's commitment to listening to young people and building relationships with them.

The Chief Constable stated that policing supports a healthy and safe society. He noted that the PSNI aims to address youth concerns as seriously as adult ones. Boutcher described this engagement as part of the PSNI Children and Young People’s Strategy.

Local officers from the Colin neighbourhood team support the project. They have met participants to discuss concerns and provide advice on issues affecting young people. Constable William Kingsberry and neighbourhood officers previously collaborated with the school on Op Chicquer.

Op Chicquer targets dangers from illegal street scrambling. It includes safety programmes with community engagement and youth education via safe scrambling courses. A film on the operation was shown during the visit.

The PSNI reported a 29.8% reduction in scrambler-related incidents across Belfast from 2023/2024 to 2024/2025. Principal Adrian Walsh said students questioned Boutcher on their experiences with policing. Walsh noted the visit fostered dialogue and mutual understanding.

Walsh added that community engagement ranks as a central PSNI priority. He highlighted partnerships between the school, police, and agencies to tackle local issues.