Scheme to prevent youngsters entering the world of crime is launched in Harlesden

Bang Edutainment’s Strength 2 Strength project will work with eight to 13-year-olds and their families

A new project to help youngsters in Brent at risk of spiralling into the criminal world has been launched in Harlesden.

Bang Edutainment’s Strength 2 Strength project will work with eight to 13-year-olds and their families to deal with any risk factors that may encourage youngsters to become involved in crime.

Working independently yet alongside partners such as the police, social services and housing associations, the Strength 2 Strength team will focus on 76 young people over the next two-and-a-half years.

The project will aim to reduce offending rates by looking at factors such as emotional, social and peer behaviour patterns, parenting, family and home circumstances, school life and interaction with the community.

Strength 2 Strength will also provide support for young people to get involved with community activities, give help with parenting and create group activities to develop life skills.

A spokesman for Bang Edutainment said: “The open day was a great success with key referral agencies from across the borough attending as well as special guests from Extern in Northern Ireland who have been running the project there. “All were keen to find out more and suggest young people at risk who would benefit from the project.

“We are really looking forward to working with these agencies and at-risk families in our community.

“We also welcome hearing from concerned parents and carers and happy to meet with them to discuss if their child fits the inclusion criteria.”

Strength 2 Strength is a replication project which enjoyed much success in Northern Ireland and is funded by the Big Lottery.