SPA UK Sandesh 2016 | Page 71

Grooming & Entrapment
Both Nikhilbhai and Jayantbhai have tried their best to encourage the Youth to participate in activities . They have both made pleas to both youths and parents to come forward and take active part , but so far with little response it has left them disappointed . We request parents and youngsters to come along , participate and have fun .
The early signs are that the child is disruptive ; their behaviour changes at home and they become aggressive when approached They use mobile phones and computers to communicate ; texts , WhatsApp , Instagram , phone calls , Facebook , etc . Some miss their school , college , university , work etc . Others may start taking drugs , drinking alcohol , which are ideal opportunities for the child to be groomed . Once they are entrapped it can lead to secretively stealing money from home , giving access to the family homes and blackmail .
Our Seniors as usual are thriving in our organisation and they are the backbone of our society , without whom I do not think we would exist today . They have continued monthly gatherings and also arranged a trip to Brighton . I really thank them from the bottom of my heart .
It was a huge disappointment to see only 5 participants from Birmingham in this year ’ s Sports Day . We also saw numbers from all other branches dwindling too . Some 10 - 15 years ago we had over 600 participants and over 300 spectators . Maybe times have changed , but I believe it is us who have changed the time , tradition and interest in our Samaj and Sports . It appears that laziness and a ‘ can ’ t be bothered attitude ’ have deterred many from taking part . There are other reasons such as being ‘ very busy at work ’. Of course , work is the foremost priority in order to earn money , survive and for leisure , but we should not forget life after work too with our family and the wider family , one of which is our Samaj .
Our on-going building renovation work continues . Painting outside of the building and inside the hall way has been completed . Other much needed refurbishments are still to be done , but this requires funds to tackle the reminder of the renovations . We are hoping that next year we can refurbish the toilets , review the rising damp issues in the building and other works that need urgent attention . We need financial assistance from our members and hence funds raised through various events will be used for renovation . Don ’ t forget we are a Charity too ! Hence consider Gift Aid if you are a tax payer .
Note , we are continuing to work with local councillors and MPs to secure the land across the road and also to seek funding to renovate our building .
Grooming & Entrapment
National Hindu Welfare Support ( NHWS ) and its team presented a seminar on ‘ Grooming & Entrapment ’ at the Shree Prajapati Association Centre in Birmingham on Saturday 6th August 2016 . The seminar was very informative and provided information on how young girls / boys and even adults are groomed and entrapped . Grooming starts with the offender targeting and profiling suitable girls / boys to be exploited or converted . Over time the girls / boys trust may be gained by attention , flattery and gifts . The intention is to draw the girl in more deeply , by making her feel special and then to isolate her from friends and family . Groomers often seek out girls using social media . Once the relationship is sexualised the offender will take advantage by threats , blackmail and exposure unless demands are fulfilled . Once the offender gains control , the girl is subject to further manipulation , isolation and destitution , with little or no help .
I understand that we all have a busy life but I am confident that we can spare at least an hour or two a month to do Samaj Sewa . Please come forward , help your community , and be proud of our Prajapati Samaj and Culture .
Finally , on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Management Committee , I would like to take this opportunity to thank all members for their help , support and contribution throughout the year and wish you all a very Happy Diwali and a Nutan Varsh Na Abhinandan .
Vipul Harkishanbhai Mistry President 2015 / 2016
Parents , families , and communities must be aware and not sweep these issues under the carpet and stop a culture of silence . Regularly speak to your children , and be aware of what they are up to . Ask them questions about their day at school / college . It is up to parents , families , communities to ensure that our children are aware of these issues . Hindu Sewak , awake and arise to do Raksha - protect , nurture and preserve , our girls / boys , families , communities and Dharma .
NHWS was established on ‘ Raksha Bandhan ’ 2015 . All members on the team are volunteers from the Hindu faith . NHWS is a voluntary organisation which works with communities , families and girls / boys to raise awareness about grooming and provides assistance and support . They have a 24 hour helpline ( 0207 341 6279 ), where they can be contacted concerning issues with grooming and conversions . They provide also advice , assistance and a counselling service .
Top to bottom : Sports Day Participants 2016 , Bike Ride / Walk
vol . 41 | Prajapati Sandesh 2016 69