"Empower youth through arts," says Police and Crime Commissioner on tackling drug crime
The PFCC says creative community projects help steer young people away from illegal gangs
As Northamptonshire Police joined a national week of action against county lines criminality, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) Danielle Stone highlights the critical role of youth and arts programs in preventing young people from falling into the traps of organised crime.
The coordinated effort, which involved law enforcement teams from across the UK, targeted organised groups involved in drug supply and exploitation. The operation led to numerous arrests, seizures, and protective measures for vulnerable individuals.
Stone stresseed that early intervention and creative engagements are essential for steering young people in the county away from criminal influences. "Young people who are engaged in positive activities are least likely to be vulnerable to grooming," she stated. "Our young people need more opportunities for leisure activities and involvement in the arts."
Stone said that tackling county lines activity also means giving young people places where they feel safe, supported and able to express themselves in positive ways.
She added that new funding for local authorities to create youth hubs and develop better engagement strategies will make a real difference, helping young people feel more connected to their communities. "Local authorities are getting lots of new money to set up youth hubs and develop a strategy for engaging young people, and I think all of that is going to be really, really helpful." She said.
Noting success stories, Stone highlighted past programs that have empowered young individuals, including a youth drama course that significantly transformed one girl's outlook and confidence. "Youth workers did some work with her, and we got sponsorship for her to go on the youth drama course... she's become a completely different person," Stone recalled.
Stone advocates for increased community support, drawing attention to the role arts programs play in developing positive self-expression and reducing isolation among youth. "Young people being able to express themselves doesn't always have to be in words. It can be in music, it can be in art, it can be in drama," she said.
As efforts continue against county lines, Stone looks forward to a future where communities proactively engage with young people, providing resources essential for them to grow, thrive, and remain safe from exploitation.
''I'm really optimistic because I think there's general and universal recognition that our young people need a lot more than they've been given at the moment.''