PCC Statement on Review into Serious Youth Violence

Every young life lost to serious youth violence leaves a lasting impact. Max, Mason, and Darrian should still be with us. Their loss, and the recent attacks in Hartcliffe and on Stapleton Road, are stark reminders of the urgent need for change.

The Keeping Bristol Safe Partnership’s review highlights long-standing failures, especially in how institutions work together. These are not new, and we cannot keep repeating them.

I believe the recommendations in this review can have a real impact. But I also recognise the deep concerns of parents and carers about their children’s safety, and the fear that leads some young people to carry knives. That’s why our response must be rooted in prevention, strong partnerships, and action led by communities themselves.

Vital work is already underway to support young people, but tragically, it hasn’t always been enough to prevent such devastating losses. We must continue to invest in interventions that are proven to work and make a meaningful difference.

To help drive this change, I will be working with the strong city partners already supporting young people, engaging with Peace in Our Cities and aligning this with the work being delivered by the Violence Reduction Partnership to build sustainable, community-led initiatives that help young people live free from violence.