We apply a public health approach to violent crime, including serious youth violence. We treat violence as a preventable public health issue rather than solely a police enforcement matter.
It centres around the following key areas:
Identifying groups at risk
This includes factors such as:
childhood or adolescent trauma
mental ill-health
socioeconomic status
Adopting a whole-systems approach
We’re working with both internal and external partners to ensure that we’re tackling serious violence in the round.
Mayor of London’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC)
Early intervention
We work to reduce crime. We do this by recognising and addressing the issues that put certain people at risk of becoming involved in crime.
This is not about delivering a soft approach to violent crime. Instead, it’s about a smart, proactive approach. The approach works to prevent violence and divert people away from crime. Where necessary, it enforces against those who pose a risk to others.
Tackling inequalities
In our early intervention approach, we aim to stamp out inequalities that make young people vulnerable to exploitation and grooming. This includes addressing issues like socioeconomic disadvantage and racial profiling.
We’re running a programme to listen to and tackle the structural challenges that can impact on outcomes for young black men. Our Young Hackney team offers specific support for young people who’ve been affected by discrimination or inequalities.
Working with and for communities
It’s key that communities are at the core of shaping policies that affect them.
Our Community Resilience Partnership brings together local government and community voices to develop community-shaped solutions around the prevention of violent crime and disorder.
We’re also committed to developing hyperlocal partnerships which recognise the many assets and strengths of communities. Building on existing work with partners in Pembury, Woodberry Down and Kings Park, we’re developing a network which will help strengthen our approach to tackling serious violence across Hackney.
If a crime has affected you, contact North London Victim Support for free local support. You can call them on 0808 186 9291 from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday. Call 0808 1689 111 to contact them at all other times. You can also request support on their website.
If someone has murdered or unlawfully killed a family member and you need bereavement support, contact the National Homicide Service. Call 0300 303 1984 or email HSsupport@victimsupport.org.uk. To learn about the support available, visit Victim Support – Homicide Service.
Young Hackney is our service for all young people aged 6 to 19 and up to 25 with additional needs. They also provide a range of advice for young people on staying safe.