Youth programmes have been set up in churches and faith hubs across the West Midlands to help boost the wellbeing of our young people and reduce violence.
A total of £100,000 has been invested by the Violence Reduction Partnership’s faith alliance across 4 locations in Birmingham, Walsall and Dudley.
They provide activities such as boxing, music and basic life skills.
Whilst at the faith hub adult mentors will help guide the teenagers and young adults away from violence.
Training for young people is also in development aimed at helping them become advocates for violence reduction in faith settings.
Danny, 17, started engaging with one of the hubs through his college. He takes part in boxing sessions and uses the gym facilities they provide to keep himself fit and active. He has even recorded his own track that can be found on Spotify and is now helping out at the hub regularly.
The youth hubs have been commissioned through the innovative Faith Alliance, which is part of the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership. The VRP’s key focus is on preventing youth violence and knife crime.
They do this by way of a wide range of projects including, education, youth work and bespoke tailored support for young people in places like schools, hospitals and police custody centres.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, Simon Foster, said: “Faith is a powerful tool to bring about positive change in our communities.
“I am an advocate for faith-based programmes that help reduce violence and keep our young people safe.
“These youth programmes are exactly what is needed to build healthy relationships with young people and provide them with a third safe space outside of school and home where they feel a sense of belonging.”
Randhir Singh, CEO of Midlands Langar Seva Society said: “The strength of our future lies in the hands of our youth, and every moment we invest in them is a step toward a brighter, better world.”
The programmes are delivered by Midlands Langar Seva Society, Blesst, YMCA and First Class Foundation.
