Young people
share experiences
of violent crime
at City Hall
An in-depth discussion surrounding tackling gangs, gun and knife crime involving young people and community leaders was hosted at City Hall on Monday evening, by local Merton London Assembly Member, Leonie Cooper AM.
Organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG UK), the meeting revolved around the powerful testimonies of young people and community leaders about their views and experiences of the tragic consequences of violent crime.
In the 12 months leading up to July 2018, there were 189 knife crime offences in Merton. Whilst Merton had a relatively low number of offences compared to other boroughs in the capital, this number represents a rise of 9% upon the previous year.
During the same period, there were 38 gun crime offences recorded in the borough, marking a significant rise of 58% on the preceding year.
With these statistics and the London-wide figures in mind, attendees debated potential solutions to stemming the increase in violent crime, and the key role of local organisations and faith groups to support the most vulnerable young people in the community.
The Met Police have had to make £720m worth of savings since 2010, and face further cuts of £325 million over the next few years. The Mayor of London has taken action to plug the gap in funding by investing £110 million into the Met, and has provided £45 million to support early intervention projects across London through his Young Londoners Fund.
Local London Assembly Member, Leonie Cooper AM, said:
“Listening to young people from all backgrounds is essential, in order to tackle the increase in violent crime that is blighting our streets. Every section of the community must play their part and work together. It is only in this way, that we can prevent any further tragic incidents from taking place.
“It was inspiring to hear the views and ideas of local young people and community leaders, who desperately want to see an end to the gratuitous violence.
“However, the Government have failed to properly fund our police, forcing the Met to make almost £1 billion of savings by 2021. This has had a knock-on effect on the strength and presence of our local police force.
“On the other hand, the Mayor has taken stringent action on violent crime by investing an extra £110 million in the Met Police, setting up a new Violent Crime Task Force and introducing a £45 million Young Londoners Fund for those most at risk of getting caught up in crime”.
ENDS
Notes to editors
- In the 12 months leading up to July 2018, there were 189 knife crime offences in Merton. This number represents a rise of 9% upon the previous year;
- During the same period, there were 38 gun crime offences recorded in the borough, marking a significant rise of 58% on the preceding year;
- The Met Police have had to make £720m worth of savings since 2010, and faces further cuts of £325 million over the next few years.
-Photos of the meeting can be found attached to the email;
-Leonie Cooper AM is the London Assembly Member for Merton and Wandsworth.