News and opinion

A mentor can be one of the most positive role models in a young person’s life. By building a strong, trusting relationship with a suitable adult brings many emotional, social and developmental benefits – may of which directly reduce the risk of children’s involvement in violence.  How mentoring helps prevent youth violence  Mentoring can significantly…

Knife crime in the UK has dominated headlines in recent months, sparking widespread concern. While the statistics are shocking, they only scratch the surface of a deeper, more complex issue.   To truly understand and reduce knife crime, we must look beyond the numbers. Tools like our Core Indicators of Violence dashboard, delving into knife crime…

Employment and access to workplace skills are vital for young people, offering more than just financial independence. They provide a sense of purpose, structure, and an opportunity to develop essential life skills. Engaging in meaningful work enables young individuals to cultivate communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for personal development and future career…

Four months after the ban on so-called “zombie knives,” our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) argues that while the ban is a step in the right direction, more comprehensive action is needed to effectively tackle knife crime. The 2016 ban on zombie knives was hampered by a loophole, allowing retailers to circumvent restrictions by simply removing…

As a Youth Advisory Board (YAB) member, my role is to represent young people, serving as a bridge between young individuals and the organisations that shape policies and legislation affecting their lives. I represent the diverse voices of youth, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to know that their voices are not only heard but are…

Following our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) visit to No.10 Downing Street, Callum one of our YAB members wrote the following account. On the 20th October 2023 members of the YEF Youth Advisory Board, including myself, visited 10 Downing Street and met with Civil Servants working as part of the Policy Unit, which provides policy advise…

To celebrate International Youth Day we chat to Lily about the work of the Peer Action Collective and being a member of the YEF's Youth Advisory Board.