The programme in Oldham provides mentoring, youth work and sports programmes for young people at risk of or vulnerable to serious youth violence and exploitation, programmes that empower young females, and projects that engage young people and their parents.
Set up in July 2022, the programme works with young people aged between 10 and 25, and their families, to develop projects to address the underlying causes of violence and build aspirations and opportunities.
A community-led approach to violence reduction, means the VRU works closely with communities to understand the strengths, challenges, and needs of the community and determine how local investments will be made. Several boroughs across the city-region have received funding from the VRU as part of its £1.6 million investment in community-led programmes, outlined in Greater Manchester’s Serious Violence Action Plan.
A new community film which showcases an inspirational mother and social worker from Oldham was also premiered. You can watch the film here: (428) Oldham Community Spotlight: Tafreen’s Story – YouTube.
During the visit, Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:
“We know that the knowledge of how to deal with violence in any community lies within the community, so it is vitally important for us to work together.
“I was here in October and saw the strength of the partnership and the impact the programme is having on young people and families in Oldham. Since my last visit, the partners have expanded their reach and networks and are now supporting even more people.
“The programme in Oldham is a fantastic example of how strong partnerships led by the community can positively impact the lives of many people.”
