Preventing gang crime
Our Community Gangs Team (CGT) works in partnership to support people involved in gang violence or those at risk of getting involved. We focus on prevention, diversion, and, if needed, enforcement.
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Our approach to tackling gang issues
Our CGT, built on trust, treats violence as a preventable public health issue. They aim to prevent violence by diverting at-risk individuals from becoming victims or perpetrators. The team supports people involved in gang crime to leave that lifestyle. If necessary, they enforce against those committing violent crimes.
The team works with individuals, families, and the community. They identify ways to reduce violence and create a safer Hackney. They bring together the police, council, and partners to divert at-risk individuals from gangs. They work with the shared aim of tackling gang-related violence.
At any one time, the team works with around 150 people involved in gangs to support them to change their behaviour. The majority are adults, with over 18-year-olds forming about 2/3 of the caseload. About a third are in custody. The team also works with those on the periphery of gangs to divert them away from gang involvement.
They follow the council’s public health approach towards tackling violent crime. This approach has achieved success in areas where it has addressed the underlying causes of violence. This includes participation in Hackney’s Extra-Familial Risk Panel. The panel intervenes in cases where a young person is at risk of harm outside the home.
Those intent on causing harm to others face enforcement action where necessary. However, the team’s central focus is on early detection and prevention. They’re not about delivering soft justice but smart justice. Smart justice works to tackle gang violence by addressing factors that put adults and young people at risk of joining gangs.
Our Community Gangs Team (CGT)
If you’re worried about a child or young person
If you’re concerned about any child or young person living in Hackney, contact our Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) for advice and guidance.