The events were organised by Hertfordshire Constabulary, Hertsmere and Watford Community Safety Partnerships, and Three Rivers District Council. The sessions gave professionals, parents/carers, and young people an opportunity to learn about the impact of knife crime and strategies to protect young people from violence and other gang-related risks.
Hearing from people who have first-hand experience of knife crime and gangs encouraged discussions about the importance of recognising warning signs that young people may need help. Alison Cope, an anti-violence campaigner, gave an inspiring presentation about her son Josh who tragically lost his life to knife crime in 2013. Impressionable Minds, an organisation that runs educational workshops, gave a talk covering topics such as bullying, extremism, drugs, county lines, and alcohol awareness.
Services for Young People (SfYP) hosted a stall at each event to network with partner agencies and raise awareness of the support we offer to young people around violent crime, antisocial behaviour, criminal exploitation and gang culture. SfYP Youth Workers interacted with young people and their families as well as other professionals, answering questions and explaining how to refer a young person to SfYP.
By engaging with SfYP youth work projects, young people are supported to make positive life choices and contribute to creating safer communities for everyone.
Professionals, parents/carers or young people can contact their local team to join one of our projects or make a referral.
Find out more about how SfYP helps young people to stay safe.
