Summer violence in Coventry city centre has dropped by almost 10% compared to the same time last year.
August 2024 was the lowest month of recorded serious youth violence incidents in the city centre St Michael’s ward, since December 2023, with NO knife and bladed item related incidents.
This comes after £25k was pushed towards a summer programme running across the city to reduce violent crime. The programme ran across the summer holidays alongside existing activities.
The West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership worked with local organisations to increase the number of youth workers available in key areas such as the city centre and Hillfields. The youth workers are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to guide and advise young people at risk of or already involved in violence to help them get out of it.
The funding also went towards a mobile youth club on a bus which was equipped with sports equipment, arts and crafts, and a music system, providing a safe space for socialising and support.
Police patrols were also increased at key times, while youth workers and organisations involved were directing young people, they engaged with, to other activities going on.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster said: “It is incredible to see how quickly rates of violence can drop when our young people are given the support and help they need.
“It really shifts the focus onto us as organisations and communities to assess how we can better play a part in making our streets safer for everyone.
He added: “It also highlights the importance of the My Tomorrow campaign which is all about empowering young people and really listening to their views in tackling youth violence.
“It was feedback from them that was one of the reasons that the summer projects were set up in the first place.”
“However, we are not taking anything for granted and I will continue to work hard in holding West Midlands Police to account and supporting the Violence Reduction Partnership.”
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader at Coventry City Council, and Chair of the city’s Police and Crime Board, said: “Our mission as a city is to work together to engage young people, provide support, signpost to activities, and build relationships, all while working closely with youth organisations and police officers to ensure safety and engagement.
“I think this works well but we have lots more to do.”
Police Commander Paul Drover, West Midlands Police, said: “These initiatives are made possible through the support of the Coventry Serious Violence Prevention Partnership, local organisations, and local policing.
“This initiative also aligns with Coventry’s commitment to becoming a child-friendly city, where the well-being and development of children are prioritised.”
The activities were run by Sky Blues In the Community, Guardian Ballers and Guiding Young Minds (GYM) and Empowr-U.
