Key findings from the 2025 Home Office VRU evaluation – a public health approach to addressing violence
We would like to share some key findings and strategic insights from the latest VRU (Violence Reduction Unit) evaluation. The latest national evaluation report was published by the Home Office this summer and marks year 5 of VRUs nationally. Essex predates this, with the Violence and Vulnerability framework put in place in 2018 and establishing […]
VRU Directors Conference
This week the Home Office held their summer VRU directors conference in Bristol. The conference had a focus on the new young people’s prevention partnership panels. These are multi-agency panels which will proactively identify vulnerable young people and refer them to a range of support services, emphasising the importance of early intervention and focused early […]
The Power of Sport and Youth Crime Prevention Conference
The VVU was delighted to attend, and present, at the Active Essex Foundation Power of Sport and Youth Crime Prevention Conference at Colchester United Stadium yesterday. The conference bought together locally trusted organisations, charities, community groups, CICs, probation, police, social work, sports organisations and local councils all of whom are committed to improving the lives […]
Youth Voice Day 2025
The date for the Youth Voice Day 2025 is confirmed! Youth Voice Day is a fun packed day, (hosted by Essex Boys and Girls Clubs and ECVYS) for young people to talk about issues that matter to them, learn new skills and present their ideas to Essex leaders and dignitaries. Held from 9.45am to 3.30pm […]
Grants up to £22k now available to support young people and community safety projects as two PFCC funds launched today
Today, Thursday 3 July, Essex Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst launches two funds offering grants to organisations supporting young people or community safety projects across Southend, Essex or Thurrock. The Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit Community Grant is now open for applications up to £22k and the Community Safety Development Fund 2025/26 is now […]
“No place for knives on Essex streets”
“There is no place for knives – of any description on our streets” Those are the strong words of Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst as a national surrender scheme on ‘ninja style’ swords is set to begin. From 1 July to 31 July a Home Office lead national surrender scheme will be […]