Sadiq Khan has announced a £2million investment package in activities to divert thousands of young people away from violence over the summer holiday.
The funding has been put into the mayor’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) and will be directed to areas of the capital most affected by crime.
The package of activities, ranging from sport to music production to mentoring - as well as employment opportunities - will work to support young people during a time of year when the evidence suggests they are more vulnerable to exploitation and violence.
“Tackling violence is my top priority and I’m committed to building a safer London for everyone by being tough on violence and tough on its complex causes,” said Mr Khan.
“That means putting the next generation of Londoners front and centre, and working to provide the investment, support and helping hand for young people who need it the most.”
He added: “I want young people to experience the unrivalled opportunities this city provides and to be safe, to develop and to thrive.”
Some of the funding will be given to Pupil Referral Units and Alternative Provision settings so that they can provide their own activities over the holidays, including boxing and BMX coaching, trips outside their community and opportunities to develop skills in carpentry and hair and beauty.
VRU director Lib Peck said: “The summer holidays are a really important period in a young person’s life. It should be a time to explore, to have fun and to build and make friendships.
“We’re committed to investing in young people and giving them the opportunities they deserve because we firmly believe that violence is preventable, not inevitable.”
In March this year, the mayor warned that the high cost of living was fuelling a rise in certain offences in the capital, including violent crime.
In February, he launched an ‘inclusion charter’ for London. It aims, where possible, to reduce school suspensions, as the mayor argues that young people are likelier to become involved in violence once they are outside the protective influence of school.
