Targeted Youth Support in Police Stations and Hospitals Makes Significant Impact, But Faces Uncertain Funding

 

In a south London police station, 15-year-old Sarah (name changed) sits wearily under the stark lighting, her exhaustion palpable. Arrested for assault in the early morning, she's had little sleep, hasn't eaten, and is disinterested in talking. Across from her sit two youth workers, Amani El-Aziz and Kat Taylor, who are calm and collected, determined to offer support rather than judgment.

“We’re not here to ask about what happened,” says Aziz, a 37-year-old youth worker, conveying empathy in her casual attire and approachable demeanor. Taylor adds with a smile, “We’re just here to help.” After a few light-hearted exchanges, Sarah gives a slight smile, showing a glimpse of trust in these newfound allies. This moment is the beginning of a vital relationship that could steer her toward a more positive path. Over the coming months, the youth workers will regularly meet Sarah to discuss life, relationships, and future plans, aiming to provide her with guidance and support that extends beyond the police station.

Similar scenes unfold daily at St. Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, where 29-year-old youth worker Abdi from the Redthread charity works with young people admitted with trauma injuries. Many of these youth are survivors of stabbings, assaults, or even acid attacks. Abdi meets these young patients during their most vulnerable moments, offering comfort, support, and a nonjudgmental ear. He might bring along a snack or even an Xbox to help them feel at ease, returning regularly until they open up, or at the very least, see him as a trusted figure.

These interactions are part of targeted youth outreach programs aimed at curbing youth violence. Deployed in hospitals and police stations, these youth workers do not act as law enforcement or social workers but as compassionate mentors to help young people break cycles of violence and exploitation. The London Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) funds these initiatives, largely supported by the London mayor’s office and the UK Home Office. They also provide personalized care, helping each youth navigate their challenges through safe housing options, re-enrollment in school, or securing jobs.

Research indicates this approach has been impactful. Statistics from the London VRU reveal that nearly 90% of the youths involved in the Engage program avoided reoffending within a year. Likewise, data from Redthread demonstrates that 78% of at-risk young people working with their youth workers saw a reduced risk of harm.

Despite its success, the future of this crucial work is uncertain. VRU funding is renewed on a three-year cycle, with the current funding set to expire in March 2025. Although the new Labour government has announced a "Young Futures" initiative, which includes provisions for youth workers in police stations and hospitals, details on its funding remain unclear. There are concerns that without secure financial support, these programs, which have become lifelines for at-risk youth, might face closure.

For youth workers like Aziz and Taylor, continued investment in these programs is essential. Reflecting on a young person who, with their guidance, turned away from crime and now mentors others, Aziz emphasizes, “The proof is in the transformation. Sometimes, we’re the only ones standing by these young people.”