Marking five years since its launch, the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit highlights new figures that show significant progress in preventing and reducing serious violence across the region.

The latest data shows real impact over the last 12 months, with a 5.9% reduction in serious violence, a 5.7% drop in knife-related incidents, and hospital admissions caused by sharp objects are down by 34%.

Established in 2019, the Violence Reduction Unit takes a long-term, public health approach to tackling serious violence, addressing its root causes through early intervention and targeted initiatives.

Over the past year, a range of interventions have been delivered, many of which were co-designed with communities and practitioners to ensure they respond to local needs.

By working closely with partners and local services, these are just some of the initiatives making a real difference:

• Over 34,350 individuals have been engaged by the Education Team, including 11,008 young people who attended dedicated knife crime awareness sessions.
• The Seasonal Violence programme, which increases activity during the popular summer and winter months, delivered a 15% reduction in serious violence and a 28% drop in anti-social behaviour.
• Student Champions provided tailored, one to one support for 166 vulnerable young people, offering guidance to divert them from crime.
• Through the Local Youth Fund, more than 2,400 young people directly benefited from positive activities they helped shape, from awareness films and sports sessions to safe spaces and culture days.
• The recently launched Violence Prevention Ambassadors Programme, trained 166 ambassadors and is engaging a further 500 individuals in the e-learning modules, equipping participants with the tools to spot early warning signs and start vital conversations.

Now, through the Government’s Safer Streets Mission, the Violence Reduction Unit has secured £2.2 million to build on current achievements, and continue delivering initiatives that prevent violence and improve safety in local communities.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Listening to what matters most to our communities, you told me that tackling serious violence is crucial, which is why I’ve made this vital prevention work a key priority in my police and crime plan.”

“Over the past year, we’ve seen real progress, with reductions in serious violence, knife crime and anti-social behaviour. But we won’t stop here. This isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about creating lasting change. That means continuing to invest in prevention, intervening early, educating and empowering young people, supporting families, and creating positive opportunities that steer individuals away from crime.”

She added: “Through the Violence Reduction Unit, Northumbria Police and our partners, we are committed to ensuring you feel safe, whether out in public places, or in the comfort of your own home. We will continue to listen and adapt our approaches, because for every individual we reach, and every life we help steer away from harm, is another step towards safer streets and stronger communities for everyone.”

Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit Director, Steven Hume, said: “This isn’t just about reducing violent crime, it’s about changing lives for the better. I’m proud of the progress we’re making, but we know that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight.”

“A long-term public health approach, focusing on prevention and early intervention, is essential, and so are the strong partnerships that we have across Northumbria. We’re starting to see the results of this joined up effort. We know it works but there is more we need to do. We remain committed to working with our partners and communities to tackle the root causes of serious violence.”

For more about the Northumbria Violence Reduction, visit the website or email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk

Almost 600 staff working across the region’s night-time economy have now been trained to recognise signs of vulnerability and exploitation, as part of a growing initiative to improve safety in local areas.

The training is designed to equip staff with the knowledge and skills to recognise when someone may be at risk, and give them the confidence to take action before harm escalates.

Staff from pubs, bars, hotels and student accommodations have taken part in the online sessions, delivered by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit and supported by officers from Northumbria Police.

The training has been rolled out to bar staff, security personnel, hotel teams, and venue managers, helping them to:

• Identify signs of intoxication, distress or exploitation.
• Spot the warning signs linked to County Lines activity and Modern Day Slavery.
• Safely intervene and take practical steps to a support vulnerable person, including how to keep them safe.

This proactive approach aims to improve safety in the night-time economy by ensuring staff have the tools to intervene early and respond when someone may be at risk of harm.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Staff working in bars, clubs, and hotels are often the first to spot when something isn’t right, whether that’s a woman who’s been separated from friends, someone showing signs of distress or intoxication, or an individual being targeted by others. We all have a responsibility to look out for each other.”

“This training helps raise awareness of vulnerability and exploitation, but it also empowers staff to act. It helps them understand how to step in safely, where to direct someone for help, and how to play their part in safeguarding those at risk. The more people who can intervene early, the more we can prevent crime from happening in the first place.”

“Everyone has the right to feel safe when enjoying everything our fantastic towns and cities have to offer. That’s why through the Violence Reduction Unit, Northumbria Police and local partners, we’re committed to creating safer streets and stronger communities, and this training is a key part of delivering on that promise.”

This training programme forms part of a wider effort in preventing serious violence across the Northumbria force area, creating safer, stronger communities for everyone.

For more about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit and the awareness sessions it delivers, visit the website or email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk

The region’s police organisations have teamed up with partners to host a unique event aimed at shining a light on evidence-based practice that reduces the harm caused by serious and organised crime.

The North East Serious and Organised Crime Conference, was an innovative two-day event, that saw key specialists come together to deliver inputs showcasing national and regional examples of success, demonstrating new opportunities, highlighting new threats, and detailing new capabilities that can be utilised to assist in the prevention of serious and organised crime.

Held at the amazing Glow Centre in Aycliffe Business Park, on March 25 and 26, it was led by the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) with the support of Durham Constabulary, Cleveland Police and Northumbria Police.

The Society for Evidence-Based Policing kindly sponsored the event and it also saw all three of the region’s Police and Crime Commissioners attend and show their support, with Susan Dungworth and Joy Allen, introducing speakers throughout both days.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Criminal networks often prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities, fuelling violence, exploitation, and fear. The impact this has on individuals, families, and communities is devastating – and this has to stop.

“Tackling serious and organised crime is everyone’s responsibility. We all have a role to play, and no single organisation can tackle it alone. That’s what this conference was all about, bringing together experts from across policing, sharing innovative approaches, and highlighting new opportunities.

“This is a relentless fight but one we are absolutely committed to winning. By sharing intelligence, strengthening our partnerships, and focusing on both disruption and prevention, we will continue making it harder for criminals to operate. Together we will create safer, stronger communities for everyone.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Phil Shutt, Head of NEROCU, said: “It was a fantastic event and we’ve had an incredibly positive response from those who attended.

“I want to thank all those who attended the conference and a special thank you to those who delivered a presentation. Everybody engaging with sessions is what made it the success it was.”

The event also had stalls from Cyber and Economic Crime specialists, Tackling Organised Exploitation (TOEX), Northumbria Police’s Trainee Detective Programme that tackles knife crime, and the City of London Police.

DCS Shutt added: “In the North East we are proud of the connected and coherent response we deliver to the threat of serious and organised crime, providing a collaborative whole system approach across the region with our ROCU, three police forces, NCA and all our partners.

“NEROCU plays a pivotal role in connecting local to national delivery, and events like this are crucial in sharing best practice and raising awareness of the latest innovative capabilities available to maintain our momentum in targeting those involved in serious and organised crime and protecting our communities.”

Just four months after its launch, the Violence Prevention Ambassadors Programme has reached a major milestone, training over 100 ambassadors and engaging more than 500 individuals, in the fight against serious violence.

Led by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, the initiative is growing rapidly, building a strong network of frontline staff, youth workers, and community leaders equipped with the knowledge and tools to intervene early and prevent violence before it escalates.

With tackling serious violence remaining a top priority across the Northumbria force area, this surge in trained ambassadors reflects a growing commitment to breaking cycles of violence and creating safer communities.

By identifying risk factors early, Violence Prevention Ambassadors can support young people before they are drawn into violence.

The programme’s online training, made up of four interactive modules, offers individuals with crucial insights into:

• Knife Crime Awareness – The causes, consequences, and prevention strategies for Knife Crime, and signposting additional support.
• Joint Enterprise – The legal implications and common misconceptions of group-related criminal activity.
• Gangs and Youth Violence – what gangs are, what they do, the role of women and girls, and the work done to prevent recruitment.
• Hidden Harms – Recognising the impact of parental substance misuse, mental health issues, and domestic abuse, and understanding how to support those affected.

Upon completing the training, participants become Violence Prevention Ambassadors, joining the fast-growing network dedicated to tackling the root causes of serious violence.

To mark this significant milestone, the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit brought together the first cohort of trained ambassadors, recognising their commitment to preventing violence, and encouraging more professionals to take part.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Tackling serious violence isn’t just about policing, it’s about prevention, education, and empowering those working with young people to intervene at the earliest point. In just four months, we’ve built a network of over 100 Violence Prevention Ambassadors, all committed to keeping young people safe and diverting them away from harm.”

“Becoming an ambassador isn’t just about knowing the facts, it’s about taking action. For every young person reached, every conversation had, and every barrier broken down, this contributes to a future where violence does not define our communities.”

She added: “Please keep spreading the word about this programme. Tell your colleagues, share it with your networks, because imagine the impact we could have if even more people got involved. Together, we can build safer, stronger communities for everyone.”

Steven Hume, Director of the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit said: “The Violence Prevention Ambassadors Programme is part of the wider work of the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, and our partners, in tackling the root causes of serious violence and diverting people from violent crime. Every ambassador represents a trusted adult who can help support a young person in making safer, more informed choices. The fact we’ve already surpassed 100 trained individuals in just a few months shows the demand for this kind of support. We’re determined to keep growing the network, and I encourage you to sign up.”

PROJECTS making a significant impact tackling anti-social behaviour and serious violence across Northumbria have been given a boost, following a Government announcement of a further £4million to help deliver on priorities that matter to local people.

Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, has welcomed news that funding has been secured for two of the region’s key crime prevention initiatives – Northumbria’s Violence Reduction Unit and Project Shield.

Together, the funding will support robust targeted policing and early intervention initiatives tackling two of the priorities set in the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan – ASB and serious violence.

An extra £1.8m is coming to Northumbria through The Hotspot Action Fund allowing Project Shield to continue providing increased patrols and engagement in target areas. A further £2.2m has been secured for Northumbria’s Violence Reduction Unit, as part of Government’s Safer Streets Mission. This means the Unit can continue building on its preventative work in tackling the root causes of serious violence.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, who launched Project Shield with partners following her election last summer, said:

“It’s great we have a Government that is giving financial backing to two key approaches that we’ve seen are making a real difference across our force area. There is no single solution to stopping things like ASB and serious violence but combining a range of approaches certainly helps. People want to see more patrols to support communities and deter crime – as we’re delivering through Project Shield. And they want fewer people to turn to crime in the first place, and that’s where the VRU comes in – identifying issues early and responding with targeted diversionary work.

“What both these projects recognise is the need for the whole region to come together in tackling these issues – they’re not just police problems – our council, transport and community partners can, and are playing a key part in the successes we have seen to date. There really is a sense of togetherness among all those working hard for our communities.

“Residents are telling me they’re seeing the impact this work is having, and they want more of it – and that is what they will get thanks to the Government’s confirmation of continued funding. As PCC, I have set out a clear plan for delivering safer streets and stronger communities and I very much see Project Shield and the work of the Violence Reduction Unit, playing a valuable role in achieving this.”

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Hill, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are aware that anti-social behaviour and serious violence can have serious and life-changing consequences, which can also affect the wider public.

“Through the work of Project Shield, latest figures show that we are having a significant impact in addressing these issues in order to reassure residents and keep our communities amongst some of the safest in the country.

“We remain grateful for the continued support of our partner organisations as well as residents as we carry on our efforts in this area.

“We are confident that this latest announcement confirming additional funding will help us to further drive down ASB and serious violence in our region, getting more weapons seized, locating more known offenders and engaging further with the public we serve, including our young people, in the process.”

Since its launch, Project Shield has delivered an additional 21,664 patrol hours by police and partners, as well as targeted activity across areas of concern. It is one of a number of initiatives that has helped anti-social behaviour fall by 18.10% in localised areas, and serious violence by 12.85%. Alongside other VRU interventions, it has contributed to an overall force wide reduction of 5.8% in serious violence and 5.7% in offences involving a knife.

A pioneering youth programme aimed at tackling knife crime is marking one year since its launch, with the original group of young people returning this week as Ambassadors to share how their experiences are shaping the choices they make.

The Trainee Detective Programme, developed by Northumbria Police in partnership with the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, has welcomed multiple cohorts over the past year, giving more than 80 students the chance to step into the role of detectives.

Empowering young people to take a stand against knife crime, this immersive, week-long programme mirrors the real-life investigation into the murder of Connor Brown, a Sunderland teenager who was fatally stabbed in 2019.

At the heart of this ground-breaking initiative are his parents, Tanya and Simon Brown, who continue to share their personal story in a powerful effort to educate young people on the devastating impact of knife crime.

A wide range of partners, including police staff, education teams, forensic specialists, medical professionals, and legal experts, have helped bring this programme to life, ensuring young people not only learn about the consequences of knife crime, but are also empowered to make safer choices.

Since taking part last year, students have remained engaged in activities designed to deepen their understanding, including a visit to the Knife Angel in Sunderland last summer, alongside an awareness session delivered by the Connor Brown Trust, reinforcing the clear message that knives impact everyone.

Now, returning as Ambassadors to offer insight into how the initiative is influencing the choices they make, one young person said: “Taking part in this programme has made me realise how serious knife crime is, and the impact it can have on so many people. Now, I want to help others understand the consequences before it’s too late.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Reaching this milestone is a testament to the power of education and the incredible team behind this programme. Most importantly, it reflects the dedication of the young people who have taken part.”

“Initiatives like this spark vital conversations, and I know many of the young people have already spoken with their friends outside of the programme on the devastating impact of knife crime. We need more of this, as prevention is so important.”

“The fact that some of the original group have returned, not only to share their experiences but to take their involvement a step further by becoming Ambassadors, speaks volumes about the lasting influence of this programme. It also reinforces the crucial role of peer support in tackling knife crime.”

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to Tanya and Simon Brown, who continue be an integral part of this programme, sharing their story and channelling such pain and loss into something so positive.”

She added: ‘Equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence to make safer, more informed choices is essential. That’s why we must continue working together to build safer, stronger communities and, ultimately, prevent further tragedies.”

Chief Inspector Angela Hewitt, of Northumbria Police, said: “When this project was launched it was the first of its kind, and I’m over the moon that alongside our partner organisations we’ve been able to make it a success.”

“The triumph of this project means we can continue to raise awareness of the utter devastation carrying a knife can cause and it’s brilliant to see the impact this programme has had on the young people who have already taken part. As a Force we will continue to work with young people, doing all that we can to prevent further instances of knife crime.”

“Thank you again to Connor’s family and our partner organisations. It’s thanks to your collective dedication and enthusiasm, we’ve been able to educate more than 80 students on this incredibly important issue in society so far. I hope this initiative is something we are able to continue to work together on, empowering young people to make the right choice before it’s too late.”

Tanya Brown of Connor Brown Trust: “We feel so proud to be part of this unique programme and work alongside all the amazing people involved. Sharing Connor’s story in this way helps these young people feel the devastating reality, it also empowers them to find out exactly what happened as they delve into forensics and witness statements and all the other elements.”

“The learning outcomes from this is so much more than they realise, and what they learn they share with peers and families. This programme has also inspired some of the young people into considering a future in some of the professions that are involved in the programme which is incredible.”

“We believe in educating to prevent knife crime and we also understand that everyone learns in different ways, this programme offers so many different learning experiences with one clear message, and that is knife crime impacts on everyone. We do all we do because we believe in young people. Young people are tomorrow’s future, and we do not want more families living through the heartache of losing a child or loved one to knife crime.”

Vicky Pinkney, Principal at Hetton Academy said: “I am immensely proud of the students who took part in The Trainee Detective Programme. They have become ambassadors both within school and in the community. They can passionately articulate the impact that knife crime has on families and the community and are not afraid to share their knowledge with others. The impact that this programme has had on the students is life changing”.

The Trainee Detective Programme is part of the wider work of Northumbria Police, the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, and partners, in tackling the root causes of serious violence, and diverting people from violent crime.