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Derby leads the way in tackling youth crime

19 February 2009

A ground-breaking Derby project that helps local young people to speak out if they have been victims of anti-social behaviour, knife and gang-related crime today opened its doors to Justice Minister David Hanson and Victims' Champion Sara Payne.

As well as this the project also offers vital support and information to young victims of crime

The pilot, which began last November, is already reaching out to more than 4,000 local 11-17 year olds. Working hand in hand with local communities, police, schools and voluntary groups it offers a range of services tailor-made to the needs of young people. These include workshops, drop-in sessions and school assemblies.
 
As well as this on Fridays and Saturdays, when anti-social behaviour and gang crime is at its worst, they run a range of music, sport and youth clubs to give local young people a range of options other than the streets.

Justice Minister David Hanson said:

'Youth crime has a devastating effect on victims, communities and their families. That is why the government, through the Youth Crime Action Plan, is dedicating £440,000 to helping steer young people away from crime. Derby's pilot scheme shows just what can be achieved when people on the ground work together and is an inspiration to other communities facing similar issues.'
 
Victims' Champion Sara Payne said:

'I am really pleased to see how young people are being supported throughout the system in Derby. It is great to hear over 4,000 young people have been reached through the Enthusiasm young victim project.'

Senior Manager of Enthusiasm Paul Brookhouse said:

'Young people are more likely to be victims of crime than adults and most likely to be victimised by other young people. However, young people are less likely to come forward and report this and therefore less able to access the wide network of support that is available.

'This is why we are supporting over 4,000 young people in six months.'

At the end of the pilot in May 2009 Derby will make a public pledge stating how they will continue to support young people and a full evaluation of the measures will be ready in July 2009.

Notes to editors

1. The Derby project is one of five other local pilots in the country linking in with the Youth Crime Action Plan and the Tackling Knives Action Programme. The other areas include Lambeth, Norfolk Lewisham and Oxfordshire.
2. The Derby Pilot started in November 2008 and is due to end in May 2009. Officials are expecting an interim report from evaluators at the end of February, which is expected to show good results. The government has invested approximately £60,000 in the Derby project.
3. Guidance of best practice will be available in summer 2009. Other areas will be encouraged to take forward the good practice and make their own local pledge.
4. 58% of respondents to the Casey Review reported Friday nights were the most important time for teenagers to be provided with activities in order to prevent antisocial behaviour.