Some of us have experienced gangs so we know what to say. There is a lot of gang crime in London, if you’re from a certain area you’re more likely to be robbed. “The message we came up with is that choice is what makes you and you can choose your own destination. You don’t have to be influenced by other people. We wanted people who are thinking of joining a gang to think: where will I be in five years time and how will the choices I make now affect my life?
“Working on the project has also helped me to work in a team. I managed to get involved with people I didn’t know before. There are certain barriers with meeting new people as different people have different experiences so we’ve learnt to compromise. “The work we are doing is important. We saw the riots that happened in summer 2011. They wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for gangs.”
“I’d like to contribute towards the success of the campaign and make a difference. It’s also good for my UCAS form.
Take a look at the video produced by Abdul and the rest of the group at whichpathwillyouchoose.com
“We’ve worked with a designer to come up with artwork that will be used on a website and in adverts. We’re also producing a film and that’s what interests me the most. Showing messages through film is a really effective way to reach young people and they will connect with it.
Youth Secure Streets, is the first crossEurope gangs focus and is funded by £10,000 from the European Commission’s Justice Department.
“As well as design and production, I’ve also learnt presentation skills when I presented to other groups who are doing similar projects in Italy and Spain. It helped with my confidence as a lot of eyes were on me.
“I’d like to contribute towards the success of the campaign and make a difference.” Abdul
How are we tackling serious youth violence? The Your Choice gangs programme offers support for young people at risk of being involved in serious youth violence in return for them taking personal responsibility for their actions, or face serious consequences. It focuses on identification of gang members, targeted prevention, intervention, support for young people to leave gangs and family support. Visit westminster.gov.uk/yourchoice. Westminster Children First, Issue 17, Spring 2013
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