Two new campaigns have launched today (8 June) to raise awareness of how drugs and alcohol can lead to violence, and how casual drug use can contribute to the abuse and exploitation of children. Funded by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Violence Reduction Alliance (VRA), the ‘Choices’ and ‘No Choice’ campaigns use powerful storytelling to show …
Almost 500 children and young adults identified as being affected by violence received support through Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent’s Navigator and Tailored Support Service between March 2025 and April 2026. Funded by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Violence Reduction Alliance (VRA), the Catch22 Service works to identify and support children and young adults who are involved in, …
When young people come to the attention of the police, they’re often in a difficult emotional state. For many, dealing with officers and staff for the first time can be traumatising. For others, when it’s not their first time being arrested, or interacting with us, they’re able to detach themselves from the process. Both create …
The mental health project helping to safeguard young futures Read More »
“I wanted to be a gangster.” These are the words of *Anthony, a former young offender and victim of child criminal exploitation (CCE) here in Staffordshire. He agreed to speak to Staffordshire Police as part of their Ditch the Blade campaign, which raises awareness around the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife. “I started by …
A gateway into exploitation: Carrying a knife led to me being exploited and kidnapped Read More »
From today, (Friday 1 August), ninja swords across England and Wales have been banned and the law around ownership change. Under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) (Amendment, Surrender and Compensation) Order 2025, it is now illegal to own, sell, manufacture or import these weapons. Anyone found is possession of ninja swords could lead …
Over 200 children at risk of, or victims of, Child Criminal Exploitation were supported last year by the Catch22 service, commissioned by the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office. A further 169 parents and carers also received support, and 700 professionals were given the tools and training to support a child they already had meaningful relationships with. 97% …
The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Violence Reduction Alliance (VRA) has launched a new campaign to tackle violence against frontline workers across the City and County. Developed in partnership with Staffordshire Police, the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board and West Midlands Ambulance Service, the campaign raises awareness of the person behind the role and the importance …
Our officers have been out in force taking part in enforcement and education, as part of our campaign #DitchTheBlade and a national drive on knife-related crime. Local policing teams (LPTs) spent time last week building on the work they do all year round to keep our communities safe, carrying out high-priority arrests, knife crime operations …
Arrests made and knives taken off the streets in knife crime intensification week Read More »
Following an increase in assaults against emergency workers, and the violent disorders that occurred in summer 2024, the VRA has worked with partners to develop a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of frontline worker’s safety in order to protect us.
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 …
Campaign co-produced by young people launches to help prevent violence Read More »
