Merseyside Police are investigating after threats were sent to a number of Merseyside schools. Earlier this morning, the ECHO reported that LIPA School in Liverpool City Centre had told parents to stay away after a threat was made against the school.
In a letter to parents, shared with the ECHO, they were informed the school had been forced to close for the day on Monday, March 9, due to a threat to cause harm. The letter explains how these threats are often hoaxes, but claims due to “heightened media attention” it is now a “credible risk”.
The school said it is working with Merseyside Police, with officers seen inside the school this morning. The ECHO approached Merseyside Police about the incident.
In response, a spokesperson for the force announced there have been reports of malicious communications at several Merseyside schools.
They said a number of schools have received similar email communications and enquiries are ongoing. At this stage, these are all believed to be hoaxes, with police looking to identify those involved and take appropriate action.
Chief Inspector Phil Thompson said: “We understand that parents and carers will be concerned and as a result we are liaising with all schools and providing advice and reassurance as enquiries continue.
“Based on the information we have received and assessed, there has been no requirement for those schools to close.”
This morning’s threat at LIPA comes after the news the school would be closing permanently this year after the government agreed with the school’s trustees that it should be shut down.
LIPA School headteacher Claire McKendrick said in her letter to parents: “I am writing to inform you that we have made the unfortunate decision to close the school today. “This morning, the school received a bomb threat and a threat to cause harm.
“Whilst these types of messages are, in most cases, hoaxes, the heightened media attention surrounding the school in recent days means we must treat this as a serious and credible risk.
“We are currently working closely with Merseyside Police, who are supporting us in ensuring the safety of our pupils, staff, and wider community.
“I appreciate that this will cause disruption and concern, and I sincerely apologise for that. However, the safety and wellbeing of our pupils, families and staff must always come first.
“We advise families not to enter the school building until we are able to confirm that it is safe to return.
“We will email parents regarding the reopening of the school as soon as it is safe to do so. Thank you for your understanding, patience, and support.”
If you have any information about these threats, you can call 101 or DM @MerpolCC on social media. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
