Creating Safer Spaces for Young People in Bath

Preventing harm before it happens is one of my key priorities as Police and Crime Commissioner. That means investing in early intervention and working with partners to reduce serious youth violence. Last Friday, I saw this in action when I joined Rob, who leads a team of youth workers from Youth Connect South West, and PC Alexander from Avon and Somerset Police’s Early Intervention Team on the youth outreach bus funded by the Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), which I chair.

Together, we spent time in Bath city centre, meeting the youth workers who are out every week engaging with young people where they are. Rob spent time talking to groups of teenagers – asking simple but important questions like “Do you feel safe?” and signposting them to support when needed. These conversations build trust and connect young people with safe adults, which is vital for preventing harm and creating a sense of security.

The outreach team works closely with police officers to share information about where issues may be emerging. This means youth workers can step in early, talking to young people before situations escalate to the point where police intervention is required. It’s a practical, preventative approach that makes a real difference.

We also visited the youth centre run by Youth Connect South West – a warm, relaxed space where teenagers were playing Dungeons and Dragons. Spaces like this matter. They give young people somewhere to be, with trusted adults around them. That’s an important part of reducing anti-social behaviour and protecting young people from exploitation.

Detached youth work in Bath and North East Somerset is funded by the VRP. It’s delivered by Youth Connect South West and P28, targeting areas where children may be at risk of serious youth violence. By engaging young people in the places they spend time – whether that’s on the streets or even in McDonald’s on a rainy day – youth workers build relationships and offer positive alternatives to conflict. Over time, these connections help young people make informed, positive choices.

This work is about more than reducing violence. It’s about creating safer, stronger communities by being present and available where we’re needed most. I will continue to press for action nationally and locally to prevent harm and keep young people safe. We have more to do, but I’m grateful to everyone involved for their commitment to making a difference.