We’re pleased to share that funding has been secured for a Youth Work Preventing Violence Project, supporting 10 local youth work organisations to deliver early intervention projects.
We’re pleased to share some positive news. Funding has been secured for a Youth Work Preventing Violence Project, which will support local partner organisations to strengthen early intervention work with young people.
Through this project, 10 youth work organisations will be supported to deliver violence prevention initiatives using youth work approaches. These projects will focus on reaching young people early, building relationships, and providing support before issues escalate into harm.
Youth work has long been recognised as a key protective factor in young people’s lives. At its core are trusted relationships with prosocial adults, safe spaces, and opportunities for young people to build confidence, skills, and positive identities. These elements are central to preventing violence. By offering consistent support, positive role models, and constructive alternatives, youth workers help young people navigate challenges and make safer choices.
Crucially, this approach is not about reinventing the wheel. The youth work sector already knows what works. Early intervention, relationship-based practice, and community-led youth work have proven time and again to be effective in reducing risk and strengthening protective factors around young people.
Alongside delivery, the programme will also focus on building the evidence base. We will gather learning and develop case studies that demonstrate the real impact youth work can have in preventing violence. While it’s encouraging to see increasing recognition of youth work nationally, it is vital that this recognition is backed by strong evidence that can help secure further investment and resources for the sector.
We’re excited to work with partners on this initiative and will share updates as the programme develops.