We strongly welcome today’s announcement from the Home Office(opens in new tab) on the reduction in knife murders and county lines exploitation. Every life saved and every young person protected from harm represents progress and a clear reminder that sustained, targeted action can give young people the future they deserve.
St Giles is proud to stand alongside the talented, committed organisations and individuals working towards a shared vision: a society where every young person is safe, free from fear, and supported to realise their potential.
Our 20 years of frontline experience in this space has shown us that lasting change depends on essential principles:
Early intervention and prevention – equipping young people with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools they need to recognise risk, resist grooming and exploitation, and make safer choices before harm occurs.
Trusted adults – relational mentoring delivered by trained professionals, including those with lived experience, is vital to building trust, increasing engagement and helping young people feel seen, heard and understood.
Multi-agency working – no single organisation can solve the complex challenges of violence and exploitation alone, particularly when children and young people are involved. By working together and bringing our different strengths to the table, we can provide more joined-up, effective support.
Listening to young people – young people must be central to the design of the services intended to support them. When they are genuinely listened to, services become more relevant, confidence grows, and stronger bridges are built between young people and the help available to them.
Today’s figures are encouraging, but they must mark a step forward – not a finish line. We need continued investment in prevention, trusted relationships and community-led support if we are to build on this progress and ensure every young person has the chance to live safely, confidently and with hope for the future.
Further reading:
https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk/exploitation-thrives-in-fragmented-systems/(opens in new tab)