Action plan to tackle youth crime trouble praised in Wolverhampton
An action plan to tackle violent youth crime in the Black Country has been praised in a review by council bosses.
The scrutiny review, Rewriting the Narrative - Youth Violent Crime, highlighted the work of individuals and organisations who have been working to divert young people away from crime in Wolverhampton.
It showcases the good work being done through projects delivered by Catch 22, Girls Allowed, Eyes to Success and Believe to Achieve, alongside the work being carried out by Wolverhampton Council's youth offending and community safety teams.
After speaking with youth workers and crime experts in the city, the review has made recommendations which would help reduce violent crime involving young people and strengthen prevention and resilience by identifying the risk factors and causes of crime.
The need to increase employment opportunities for young people, giving them skills and positive role models has also been highlighted as an area to improve.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, who chaired the scrutiny review, said: "Nationally, youth violence has become a hugely contentious issue and the debate about the causes, extent and solutions seems to constantly occupy the media.
"Rarely though do we pause to challenge our own reactions, assumptions or the opinions we form about the issue that's why we undertook this review.
"No one is born violent. Violence is preventable, and it is often the circumstances surrounding an individual at an early age that either puts them at a higher risk of becoming violent or provides them with the tools to lead a fulfilling and rewarding life.
"We found that good work, good initiatives, good people and good organisations are already in existence in Wolverhampton and are working hard to support our young people and help them make the right choices in life.
"This good work needs to be sustained, supported and where possible rolled out further and that is the focus of the recommendations of this review, particularly around ensuring successful community groups and youth empowerment services are able to continue the exemplary work they currently do."
