“I’m asking young people to be creative” says PCC Susan Dungworth, as she unveils a £16,000 youth fund to tackle serious violence.

Police Commissioner Susan Dungworth has today announced the launch of the Local Youth Fund, asking young people to put forward innovative ideas on how serious violence and knife crime is prevented.

With £16,000 available for youth-led projects, this initiative aims to harness the creativity and insight of young people, in a bid to create safer streets and stronger communities.

The Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund invites young people to share their views and experiences of serious violence, and propose forward-thinking solutions, to be in with a chance of receiving a share of the funding.

The initiative provides young people with a platform to have their voices heard, along with the opportunity to see their ideas brought to life, as they help shape the future of their local areas.

In previous rounds, the fund has made significant strides, supporting 78 projects, and directly benefitting over 5,200 young people.

Through a wide variety of projects, including sports activities, youth-led campaigns and drop in sessions, the fund highlights the creativity and dedication of young people across the region, and seeks new ideas to continue making a positive impact.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “I am committed to making our streets safer and communities stronger – but to achieve this, it is essential that our young people are involved in key decisions made about their local areas.”

“In doing so, we not only address the issue of violence head on, but also empower our young people to take an active role in shaping the future of local areas. That’s why the Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund is a pivotal step in giving them the chance to make a real difference.”

“So, if you have a creative idea to share, now is your chance to apply for funding, with the possibility of seeing your project come to life. I am looking forward to hearing your ideas, and to seeing them in action soon.”

Young people are now encouraged to apply for funding, with the support of community and youth-based organisations, by submitting project proposals that they think will prevent serious violence and knife crime in their local areas.

When the fund closes on Tuesday 13th August 2024, a panel of young people will review all bids, before selecting one successful project per local authority area to receive a share of the funding.

For more information about the Local Youth Fund, and how to apply, visit the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit website.