The latest data shows real impact over the last 12 months, with a 9% drop in hospital admissions caused by sharp objects, and a 4.2% drop in offences involving the possession of a weapon.

Established in 2019, the Northumbria 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 wide range of interventions have been delivered with partners to respond to local needs. These are just some of the initiatives making a difference across the region:

  • Violence Reduction Education Officers delivered 654 sessions to 23,298 young people, increasing awareness of a range of topics including knife crime, county lines and online safety.
  • The Violence Prevention Ambassadors e-learning programme received over 800 sign-ups, with almost 300 individuals completing all four modules, joining a growing network of informed ambassadors.
  • 261 professionals received workplace domestic abuse and vulnerability awareness training, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to spot signs of harm, and support those who need it most.
  • Student Support Champions provided tailored, one to one support to 117 young people, with over 86% saying their concerns were listened to, helping them to them enjoy and engage with the work.
  • Through the Local Youth Fund, young people across the region secured £13,500 to lead innovative projects designed to prevent serious violence, promote positive choices, and improve local areas.
  • The SAIL team in Sunderland continues to take a multi-agency approach, working with targeted cohorts to reduce offending by offering tailored support that meets individual needs. Many young people have reduced or stopped harmful behaviour through consistent guidance and trusted relationships.
  • The Seasonal Violence programme, which increases activity during the popular summer and winter months, continues to see reductions in serious violence, knife crime and anti-social behaviour.

This week, partners from the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, Police, Fire and Rescue, Local Authorities, Education, and Health, came together for the first Serious Violence Reduction Board meeting of the year.

The partnership reviewed progress from the last 12 months, discussed emerging trends and new ideas, and explored how existing initiatives could be strengthened to deliver even greater impact – ensuring a joined-up approach to tackling serious violence in the year ahead.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “This isn’t just about preventing violent crime, it’s about changing lives for the better. Quick fixes won’t do that, which is why we need solutions that bring 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.”

“Through the Violence Reduction Unit, 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 keep listening to what matters most to you and adapting 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: “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 our collective efforts, and together we will continue to tackle the root causes of serious violence.”

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

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