Tackling serious violence through the power of sport

15th July 2021

Hot off the heels of England’s Euro achievements, work is underway in West Yorkshire to harness the power of sport in reducing serious violence.

The West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) will be taking part in a virtual conference on Friday 19th July 2021, alongside the StreetGames charity and Loughborough University. #SportHelps

This event is designed to connect people locally who care about the lives of young people, who are at risk of offending or are offending.

It will help delegates to understand the latest data available and share evidence of effective sport-based interventions.

Director of the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) Chief Superintendent Jackie Marsh is speaking at the event and said:

“With England’s recent accomplishments in the football and the Olympics just around the corner, sport is literally on everyone’s minds, but it can do more than simply entertain.

“It is an extremely positive and motivating outlet for many young people, and we know from the latest research being undertaken that it can have a tangible influence on reducing serious violence across our communities.

“We have previously funded StreetGames to look at an approach to reduce and prevent violence through sport or physical activity and this forms part of our ongoing approach.

“They have been able to deliver an overview of the current depth and breadth of youth community sport provision across West Yorkshire and offer recommendations on how we can best mobilise the sports sector to achieve our goals in reducing serious violence.

“This is where events such as the conference are key. By working in a partnership, we can collectively identify the opportunities that exist and maximise their potential.”

Mark Lawrie as CEO of StreetGames added:

“At StreetGames we are committed to using the power of sport to help make young people’s lives healthier, safer and more successful. England’s recent Euro success has shown just how inspiring sport can be, but delivered in the right way, it can also have a lasting, positive impact on young people and their communities.

“Sport on their doorstep gives young people a sense of belonging in their communities and provides them with inspiring opportunities. StreetGames works with locally trusted community organisations to provide positive sporting alternatives for young people who are at risk of falling into the criminal justice system.

“We’re proud to be working with the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit to help tackle youth crime and anti-social behaviour, and to provide young people with a positive pathway away from crime and hope for a brighter future.”