Sandwell group helping children stop carrying knives

A youth group in Sandwell is being backed by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner for it's work combatting youth violence.

All young people referred to 'Ambitious Lives' for carrying knives, have stopped since receiving support.

What does the support group do to stop young people carrying knives?

The group offers one-to-one mentorship, sports and fitness activities, training on how to use bleed kits and workshops on wellbeing.

Simon Foster, the Police and Crime Commissioner, wants to get every school in the borough in touch with 'Ambitious Lives':

“It is truly amazing what young people can achieve with the right guidance and support.

“Whether that’s pursuing ambitious careers or finding new passions, our young people have so much ability, drive and talent within them, that is unlocked through adults and practitioners that believe and invest in them.

“The work in Sandwell is testament to this and I will continue to advocate for more creative programmes and one-to-one support for our young people.

“We must believe in, engage with, listen to, work with and invest in our young people," he said.

"Their only response is fight-or-flight to survive"

Malachi Nunes, who runs the group, said he set up the facility because of his own struggles as a child:

"If I can share the little skills that kept me alive, then we can have a safer environment for everyone.

"Sandwell is a poverty driven area where poverty starts crime. Parents and families do struggle.

"When the young people are experiencing that environment, their only response is fight-or-flight to survive," he said.

He told us what young people say to him, when they get on the right path:

"I am glad that I met you at this time. I did not listen to anyone in school or college, because I did not understand where they were coming from.

"I understand where they are coming from, so I can help them to go where they need to go," he said.

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