Investing in young people to build safer communities in Bristol

Last Friday (15th May), I had the opportunity to visit two organisations at the heart of their communities in Bristol- Southmead Development Trust and the new 224 Youth Zone in South Bristol. What I saw reinforced a simple but powerful truth: if we are serious about reducing violent crime and improving safety, we must invest in young people early, consistently, and with purpose. 

Community-led prevention in action 

At Southmead Development Trust, I met with the team delivering a wide range of support for children and young people, from open-access youth sessions to targeted early intervention, their work is built on trusted relationships and rooted firmly in the community they serve. I was particularly struck by their focus on prevention – creating safe spaces, offering positive opportunities, and supporting young people before challenges escalate into harm or involvement in crime. 

Through the Police and Crime Grant we fund the Southmead Development Trust’s Inspire Youth Mentori9ng Project. The project is helping young people at risk of antisocial behaviour or exploitation to build confidence, resilience and positive pathways forward. Hearing directly from staff about the difference this makes – not just to individuals, but to the wider community - brought to life how important this kind of early intervention is. 

A major new opportunity for South Bristol 

Later that day, I visited 224 Youth Zone in South Bristol, ahead of its opening this summer. This is an amazing new facility that will provide a dedicated space for young people aged 8–19, or up to 25 for those with additional needs. Chosen and shaped by young people themselves, the name “224”-standing for Today, Tomorrow, Forever -perfectly captures the long-term vision behind the project. 

South Bristol faces significant challenges, including deprivation, youth violence, and vulnerability to exploitation. What 224 Youth Zone offers is not just a building, but a lifeline – a place where young people can feel safe, develop skills, access support, and build relationships with trusted adults. 224 Youth Zone will fill a significant gap in what is currently available; with activities ranging from sports and creative arts to mentoring and wellbeing support, it represents a major investment in prevention and in young people’s futures. 

Why this matters 

Both visits highlighted the critical role that high-quality youth provision plays in preventing crime. When young people have somewhere safe to go, someone to talk to, and something positive to engage with, we reduce the risks that lead to antisocial behaviour, violence, and exploitation. Just as importantly, we build stronger, more connected communities. 

Prevention and early intervention are priorities in my Police and Crime Plan. That means working in partnership-with local organisations, councils, charities, and communities -to tackle the root causes of harm. It also means recognising that policing alone cannot solve these challenges; we need a whole-system approach that puts young people at its centre. 

I left both visits feeling encouraged and optimistic. The commitment, creativity and dedication of those working with young people across Bristol is clear. By continuing to invest in early intervention and community-based solutions, we can help ensure more young people are safe, supported, and able to thrive.