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An alternative to gang culture. Julia Wolton X-it Gang Desistance Programme London Borough of Lambeth. R.I.P Bowser. Loved by many, respected by all, gone but not forgotten. In loving memory of Nathan Foster 13.08.88-03.08.07. The Picture in Lambeth. Operation Trident Borough
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An alternative to gang culture Julia Wolton X-it Gang Desistance Programme London Borough of Lambeth
R.I.P Bowser Loved by many, respected by all, gone but not forgotten. In loving memory of Nathan Foster 13.08.88-03.08.07
The Picture in Lambeth • Operation Trident Borough • Total crime numbers in Lambeth fell by 7.5 % between 2006 and 2007 • However, gun-enabled crime has increased by 37% in Lambeth this year • Gun enabled crime by under 20 year olds has increased by 50% • Currently 27 “crews” operating in the Borough • The gang offers young people an alternative family
A Youth Work Approach • Participation is voluntary • Young person led • Operates within a community context • Works both on an individual level and with peer groups • Concentrates on “needs” rather than “deeds” • Works in partnership • Creates alternative identities • Offers young people opportunities
Peer Workers • Young people who have been participants on • programme are employed on subsequent programmes • Responsible for: • Programme Design • Recruitment • Role Models • Motivation • Support • Taking a Leadership role • Programme Promotion
What We Offer • Four part modular programme • running over 32 weeks • 10 week group work • 6 Day intensive residential • 20 week leadership programme (RAW) • Personal development and mentoring support scheme • Provides progression into training; and opportunities such as conferences; consultancy and business
The Impact • Independent evaluation identified 72% non-reoffending rate over 12 months • Young people given a voice • Young people progressed into returning to school, further education or training • Programme provides employment opportunities • Young people currently creating their own social enterprise • Participants are influencers amongst their peers
Advice • We believe that the following practices make a • programme successful: • Young person led • Voluntary Participation • It provides opportunities • It builds self esteem • Works in partnership • Works with groups rather than individuals • The X-it Young people work as consultants in creating • programmes. Contact: jwolton@lambeth.gov.uk for • further information
Your response What can be learned from the approach of X-it in providing an alternative to gang culture in your local community?