Wrexham and Flintshire Launch Pilot to Curb Youth Crime

Wrexham and Flintshire have been selected as part of a national pilot aimed at supporting young individuals at risk of becoming involved in crime. This initiative, which also includes locations in Hertfordshire and Derbyshire, is one of only three non-violence reduction units (VRUs) chosen across the country.

The pilot programme, known as Young Future Panels, focuses on proactively identifying and assisting those aged 10 to 17 who may be drawn into criminal activities or anti-social behaviour. By establishing new multi-agency panels, the initiative aims to connect vulnerable young people with essential support services before their situations escalate. These services include mental health assistance, career guidance, mentoring, and family support.

Collaborative Efforts to Tackle Youth Vulnerability

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales will play a pivotal role in supporting this initiative and will contribute to national insights derived from the pilot. Andy Dunbobbin, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales, expressed his gratitude for Wrexham and Flintshire’s involvement. “I am pleased that Wrexham and Flintshire are part of this groundbreaking pilot project to support vulnerable young people and reduce violence,” he stated.

Dunbobbin emphasized that multi-agency cooperation is crucial in addressing community issues. “Our assistance for young people is no different, and I am glad that this has been recognised,” he added. He highlighted that reducing serious violence is fundamental to his strategy for tackling crime in North Wales, expressing hope that the outcomes from this VRU will serve as a model for similar efforts nationwide.

Cllr Rob Walsh, the lead member for Children’s Services at Wrexham County Borough Council, echoed these sentiments. He described the initiative as an excellent opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships aimed at reducing the exploitation of young people. “This collaborative approach will ensure early identification of those at risk and timely interventions, helping to safeguard children and reduce their vulnerabilities to being involved in serious violence and crime,” he remarked.

Significance and Future Implications

Diane Jones, Serious Violence Programme Lead at the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, noted that the selection of Wrexham and Flintshire for this pilot reflects the dedication and effort invested by all parties involved. “We have achieved this through our existing strong partnerships and by building on our work to address serious violence in the region,” she stated.

Jones also highlighted that the pilot’s findings will inform the development of violence reduction strategies in areas not currently designated as VRU locations. The initiative is scheduled to run until March 2026, with results expected to guide the potential expansion of the programme across the country.

This pilot marks a significant step towards addressing the root causes of youth involvement in crime. By fostering collaboration among police, local councils, health and education sectors, youth services, and community organisations, Wrexham and Flintshire are taking proactive measures to support at-risk youth and create safer communities.