Dundee firm tackles child grooming with virtual reality
They're working with police to try to reveal the warning signs that young people are being targeted
Last updated 19th Aug 2019
A Dundee gaming company is looking to tackle child grooming through virtual reality.
Pocket Sized Hands has teamed up with Northumbria police to allow players to identify warning signs in everyday situations.
These include finding hidden cash, a spare phone or alcohol in a child's bedroom.
Abertay Uni grad Robin Lawrence designed the game's characters - she says it will resonate with a number of people.
She said: “The good thing is it is applicable to a range of ages because the aim is to reach as many people as possible.
“I remember when I was younger in school you have the police tell you that drugs are bad but at four o’clock you just want to go home. It was hard to keep you interested.
“But VR is something that they are interested in and that’s so important.”
Other simulations explore coercive control and dangers on a night out - officers will roll it out in schools and universities next month.
Managing Director Garry McCartan says it allows the player to experience vulnerability for themselves.
He said “When you are looking at a story around vulnerability you want people to empathise with that as much as possible.
“So if you put in the shoes people who are experiencing those feelings and emotions, VR can really help with that."