Powerful awareness sessions have been developed to reach young people with the right information at the earliest point, educating them on the risks of violent disorder, rioting and joint enterprise, along with the consequences of being involved.
This follows the recent unrest that has since seen 16 charged, including a teenager, for their violent, hate-fuelled behaviour, which set out to threaten the safety and well-being of local communities.
The new packages will see the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit join forces with Northumbria Police’s Prevention Team, a critical step in preventing this behaviour by educating the next generation together.
This joint initiative, designed to educate young people aged 9 to 18 years, equips them with an understanding of the laws, impact and consequences of violent disorder, riots and joint enterprise, including how to stay safe, and make informed decisions.
Tailored to meet the needs of diverse local communities, the packages will be delivered through a variety of methods, ensuring they are accessible and impactful for everyone.
The highly trained and experienced teams from the Violence Reduction Unit and Northumbria Police are on hand to deliver the sessions, and several youth organisations have already received comprehensive materials to engage directly with the young people they work with.
With this flexible approach, it ensures that important messages reach as many young people as possible, whilst enabling conversation with their peers, as they receive the information needed to keep themselves and others safe.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “The recent appalling unrest has had a devastating impact on our communities, but we have shown in our thousands that violence and hatred has no place in our villages, towns and cities. Northumbria Police have already made speedy progress in bringing those responsible to justice, but we also need to put a stop to this violent behaviour. That’s why it is incredibly important to educate our young people, making sure they have the right information at the earliest point.”
“Through the Violence Reduction Unit and Northumbria Police, we are taking proactive steps with this new programme to educate young people about the dangers of violence and disorder. But, this is not just about prevention – it’s about empowering young people to make informed decisions that will keep them safe. Together, we can build safer and stronger communities.”
Chief Superintendent Joanne Park-Simmons, who heads up Northumbria Police’s Prevention Department, said: “Prevention remains one our Force priorities and this is something we are committed to. These awareness sessions are of vital importance as we look to educate our young people and teach them of the extreme consequences of becoming involved in the kind of behaviour we unfortunately saw earlier this month.
“Together alongside the Police and Crime Commissioner, our Violence Reduction Unit and Prevention Team intend to engage with these young people, through various ways, so that they have the correct information and can make informed decisions.
“This will help in ensuring our communities continue to be the welcoming places to live, work and visit, that we know they are.”
Recently announcing a curriculum review to embed critical skills in lessons to arm children against disinformation, fake news and conspiracy theories, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said this will “give pupils the knowledge and skills they need to thrive at work and throughout life”.
Youth organisations and schools across the region are encouraged to take advantage of these new resources. For more information, or to schedule a session, please email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.
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