Leicester youth project helps youngsters improve skills and deter crime
PCC funding supports programme aimed at preventing crime and anti-social behaviour
Young people in New Parks, Leicester, are enhancing their employability skills through a diversionary initiative aimed at preventing involvement in crime and anti-social behaviour.
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Rupert Matthews invested funding into the programme, which is delivered by Team Hub Community Interest Company and supports the youth of New Parks.
This initiative forms part of the People Zones project, targeting inequalities and fostering community strengths, inclusion, and connectivity.
It empowers residents to actively contribute to making the area safer.
Focused on young people over 16, who have been excluded or disengaged from school and are at increased risk of crime involvement, the programme aims to provide essential skills that facilitate employment, training, or apprenticeship opportunities.
The project also addresses practical barriers such as acquiring identity documents, bank accounts, and national insurance numbers.
PCC Rupert Matthews remarked on the project’s achievements, highlighting the importance of trusted adult relationships and mentoring for young people.
“The success of this project is testament to Team Hub’s growth, recognition and trust in the community."
Through holistic approaches targeting crime prevention, employment readiness, and community cohesion, the project has yielded impressive results.
Participants have achieved qualifications, gained employment, apprenticeships, volunteering experience, and pursued further education.
These outcomes serve as crucial steps in long-term crime prevention.
Young people's involvement in crime is significantly reduced through such initiatives, with studies indicating those excluded from formal education are twice as likely to engage in serious violence within a year.
The programme extends beyond skills training, assisting young participants with housing solutions and benefits access.
Youth workers report positive behavioural changes, improved social interactions, and increased community participation.
Many young people actively contribute back to their communities.
The project aligns with key themes in the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan, addressing crime prevention, violence, and vulnerability.
With serious violence rates declining across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, the PCC’s commitment to maintaining this trend through diversionary activities remains steadfast.