Teenagers are running amok at a Fife hospital – causing “untold damage and alarm”, a councillor has claimed.
Authorities including the police and NHS Fife have held talks amid fears a “tragedy” could happen at Cameron Hospital in Windygates.
It is alleged that groups of youngsters are regularly running around wards, smashing windows and throwing items inside the building.
Councillor Colin Davidson, who represents Leven, Kennoway and Largo, has issued an appeal to parents to keep tabs on their children.
Councillor in ‘heartfelt plea’ over teenagers’ behaviour at Cameron Hospital
He posted on Facebook: “This is a heartfelt plea to parents of the local teenagers who, probably unknown to them, are causing concerns and fear for staff and patients of Cameron Hospital.
“Groups of teenagers are entering the grounds and buildings and breaking windows, running through unused wards, scattering contents, and causing untold damage and alarm.
“This hospital houses patients who are recovering from strokes, serious illnesses or are the recipient of end-of-life care from some of the most hard-working and dedicated staff in the NHS.”
The post added: “I’d ask that every parent of every teenager across Levenmouth ask their sons or daughters to feed back information to them if they know who is involved in this behaviour before a tragedy occurs.”
Mr Davidson says he was involved in a meeting between police, the NHS, the council-run Safer Communities Fife and security firms on Wednesday to discuss the issues.
Paul Coleman, Safer Communities manager for the area, said: “Vandalism and anti-social behaviour of any kind is unacceptable and a blight on our communities.
“Targeting a hospital like this is completely unacceptable, putting vulnerable people at risk.
“Alongside the police, we’re stepping up patrols in the area and I’d encourage anyone with information about these incidents to contact Police Scotland via 101.”
‘Multi-agency’ response to trespassing at Cameron Hospital
Neil McCormick, Director of property and asset management at NHS Fife, said: “We are aware of these incidents and are working as part of a multi-agency group, including police and fire services, to address them.
“Cameron Hospital is an active hospital site, where a variety of patients – including those who are elderly or vulnerable – receive the care and rest that they need.
“This vandalism not only causes distress and anxiety for our patients and staff, but there are also significant safety implications for trespassers entering disused buildings.”
Police ‘increasing patrols’ in response to vandalism
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of a number of calls in recent months to Cameron Hospital, Fife regarding youths causing a disturbance and vandalising the premises.
“We have increased our patrols in the area and working closely with partner agencies to address these issues.
“Anyone with concerns or information is encouraged to contact us by calling 101 to report incidents as promptly as possible so we can take appropriate action to identify offenders.”
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