Youth violence in London is on the rise. Tragically, in 2017, 46 young people under the age of 25 were fatally stabbed in London; 20 were under the age of 18. So far this year seven young men under the age of 20 have been murdered in the city (MPS, Feb 2018). While every death is one too many, the skill and dedication of paramedics, doctors and surgeons save the lives of many more young people who become involved in serious youth violence. In 2016, 1,844 Londoners under 25 were injured by a knife (Mayor’s Policing and Crime Plan, 2017-20), and 4,600 suffered other violent injuries (MPS & MOPAC, Jul 2017).

Khulisa, StreetDoctors and Redthread are working together, in partnership with BCBN, to interrupt the cycle of violence at every stage. This years’ cause is in support of young people at three high risk transition points in their lives, providing holistic support to divert young people towards a positive future. Together, these organisations support young people by equipping them with the knowledge and emotional resilience to make more positive decisions, helping them to lead safe, happy and fulfilling lives, free from violence and crime. The project has four key aims, which will be delivered through the work of each of the partners:

1. Youth Behaviour Change Programme helps young people to identify and address the root causes of their disruptive behaviour and equips them with new skills to manage conflict in their lives.
2. Life-changing training sessions that equip young people at highest risk of violence with emergency life-saving skills.
3. Youth Violence Intervention Programme meets young people during the intense moment of arriving at hospital after experiencing a violent injury.
4. Empowerment: increasing young people’s self-confidence and personal resilience.

BCBN’s 6th annual event is a real opportunity for heads of charities, business leaders and entrepreneurs to network and support local community projects, upholding their corporate social responsibility. Our gala event is a memorable and exciting evening of business networking, entertainment, exquisite dining and an occasion to demonstrate the generous nature of our business fraternity.

Guest Speaker