By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Early intervention scheme launched to steer at-risk young people away from crime and exploitation

A new initiative has been launched across West Yorkshire to support vulnerable young people at risk of being drawn into crime.

The ‘Young Futures Panels’ are designed to identify and assist 10- to 17-year-olds who may otherwise fall through the cracks, offering early access to a range of support services.

Multi-agency approach to early intervention

Based in Leeds, Bradford, Kirklees and Wakefield, the panels bring together professionals from multiple agencies, with backing from the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership.

The scheme forms part of the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’ and its wider mission to deliver ‘Safer Streets’.

Focus on prevention and opportunity

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “This intervention will help reach our young people at that crucial moment, diverting them away from criminal gangs, serious violence, or exploitation.

“Prevention is always better than cure, and by providing support at the right time and right place, we can open up greater opportunity and help keep young people away from harm.

“Only by working together in this way can we realise ambitions to halve knife crime and violence against women and girls over the next decade.”

Acting before it’s too late

West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, added: “We cannot afford to wait for those at risk to come forward, we have to act.

“These partnership-led panels allow us to quickly identify young people in danger of being drawn into crime or serious violence and intervene before it’s too late.

“By getting to those who might otherwise remain unseen and unsupported, we can change lives and protect our communities from harm.”

The Young Futures Panels mark a continued commitment to tackling the root causes of youth involvement in crime through collaboration, prevention and early support.