The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Violence Reduction Alliance (VRA) has today (12 May) launched a new campaign to support young people to manage their emotions and feelings.
The ‘Where Will It End’ campaign raises awareness of how emotions and feelings can affect behaviour choices, demonstrates how low-level violence can escalate and signposts young people to practical strategies to help them identify and manage their emotions and feelings.
Utilising funding from the Government’s Serious Violence Duty, the campaign has been co-produced with young people from Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, including those who have been affected by violence.
The Staffordshire Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the VRA, Ben Adams said:
“Violence can have lasting effects on individuals and communities which is why it’s important that we understand the root causes of violence and stop it before it begins.
“I am pleased that young people have been involved in the development of the Where Will It End campaign and that the VRA has been able to produce resources that include practical advice to support and address difficulties young people face.”
In 2023 the VRA engaged with children and young people on their perceptions of violence. The consultation found bullying and peer influence to be in the top reasons for why young people believe others become involved in violence.
To address this, the Where Will It end campaign provides clear and accessible information to help young people understand what they are feeling to prevent them from engaging in negative behaviour choices, what might trigger their emotions and the impact of their behaviour choices.
Superintendent Beverley Matthews, of Staffordshire Police Public Protection Unit, said:
“We are keen to support initiatives that provide practical advice to young people who may be at risk of harm.
“With our continued focus on child protection, we know how important it is to prevent reported incidents escalating into violence or associated criminality.
“Anything that can help our young people manage their emotions and understand how their feelings can affect their choices can only help in the long run to prevent them from being exposed to harmful behaviours.”
Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said:
“This campaign is so important, as it will help support our young residents to make the right choices as they navigate the long-term effects violence can have on wellbeing.
“It is great that young people, including some who have been directly affected by violence, have helped shape this campaign and their bravery in sharing their experiences is inspiring and will help support other young people.”
For more information visit: www.wherewillitend.co.uk
