Labour's plan to keep kids off the street
Labour's Shadow Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has announced a £100m "tough love" fund to tackle youth crime and deter kids from getting involved in gangster lifestyles. The plan includes the opening of 92 youth hubs equipped with mental health support staff and local police.
Tackling the rise of violence among young people
The number of children and teenagers at risk of serious violence is currently at 200,000, according to think tank Crest. Additionally, last year witnessed the highest number of deaths caused by knife crimes in over 70 years, especially among boys aged 16-17. Labour's plan aims to address this growing issue.
The need for urgent intervention
In her speech at the Labour conference in Liverpool, Yvette Cooper criticized the current Tory Government for failing to understand and address the vulnerability of many teenagers. She highlighted the influence of county lines gangs, the impact of harmful social media content, and the ongoing pandemic as key factors contributing to this vulnerability. Cooper emphasized the need for urgent interventions to prevent young people from turning to crime and exploitation.
The "tough love" initiative
Labour's plan includes the establishment of dedicated youth hubs and comprehensive local plans to identify and support those at the highest risk of getting involved in criminal activities or exploitation. The coordination between local council chiefs, youth mental health experts, and the Young Futures Programme will ensure effective implementation.
A comprehensive approach
While the primary focus of the programme is knife crime, it will eventually expand to address other areas such as education and careers. Labour aims to provide comprehensive support and opportunities for young people at risk, ensuring a brighter future for them and their communities.
