Murder leads to gang lesson plan

Following Kadeem's death Derbyshire Police prioritised tackling gang culture

Lessons about gang culture could be introduced into the curriculum of Derby schools if proposals being considered by councillors are adopted.

The recommendation came out of a review into the city's problem with gangs following the murder of 15-year-old Kadeem Blackwood in November 2008.

A city council commission said children should be made aware of gang issues.

If the idea is agreed by the full council next month the lessons would be brought in next year.

They would form part of Personal Safety and Health Education (PSHE) classes for young people in secondary schools and the final year of primary school.

Councillor Sara Bolton, chairman of the council's children's and young persons overview and scrutiny commission, said: "It's important we speak to the children at primary and secondary level to stop them getting involved in gangs."

The investigation found a lack of funding was "hampering" efforts to tackle a "significant gang culture" affecting parts of Derby.

The shooting of Kadeem, which was ordered by the leader of a rival gang, Michael-Paul Hamblett-Sewell, in November 2008, highlighted the extent of gang influence in the city.

Hamblett-Sewell was convicted of murder in October while gunman Callum Campbell had already admitted murdering the teenager.