Multi-agency efforts address serious youth violence

A report published on 20 November 2024 by Ofsted, HMICFRS, HM Inspectorate of Probation, and the Care Quality Commission underscores the importance of fire services and other agencies in addressing youth violence in England.

The findings reveal that children as young as 11 are carrying knives for protection due to feeling unsafe.

A 2023 Youth Endowment Fund survey found that one in four children in England and Wales had been victims or perpetrators of violence, and nearly half had witnessed violent incidents.

Fire and rescue services were highlighted for their contribution to local safeguarding partnerships, particularly in identifying risks and collaborating on prevention strategies.

Fire services’ contribution to safeguarding partnerships

The report noted that effective multi-agency initiatives include fire services working with schools and community organisations to improve safety awareness and identify vulnerable children.

Inspectors cited examples of partnerships where fire services provided safety education, which helped mitigate risks linked to youth violence.

However, the report highlighted inconsistencies in how fire services and other agencies collaborate across regions, leaving some children without adequate protection.

The lack of comprehensive guidance on multi-agency working was also flagged as a key barrier to consistent safeguarding.

Training and early intervention critical for success

The report emphasised that fire services have an important role in early intervention.

Proper training enables fire personnel to identify and respond to risks effectively, especially for children at heightened risk of harm due to trauma or neurodivergence.

The report recommends expanding fire services’ involvement in preventative programmes and improving information-sharing practices to ensure timely interventions.

Michelle Skeer of HMICFRS said: “The effects of serious youth violence on both children and communities are deeply concerning.

“It is vital that police forces, fire services, and other safeguarding partners intervene at the earliest opportunity to disrupt risks to children and young people.”

Recommendations for fire services and safeguarding partners

The report calls for fire services to strengthen their partnerships with police, health services, and local authorities to develop cohesive strategies for reducing youth violence.

Training and awareness campaigns led by fire services, particularly in schools, were identified as valuable tools for prevention and education.

Inspectors also recommended focusing on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to ensure that interventions are inclusive and effective.

Speaking about the findings, Lucy Harte of the CQC said: “We have seen how effective training and strong partnerships between local services can make a significant difference to the experience of these vulnerable children – but this is not a consistent experience for everyone.”

Role of fire services in addressing youth violence highlighted in England: summary

A report by Ofsted, HMICFRS, HM Inspectorate of Probation, and CQC highlights the crucial role of fire services in multi-agency efforts to tackle youth violence in England.

Fire services contribute to safeguarding by collaborating with schools and local organisations, providing safety education, and identifying risks early.

However, inconsistencies in these efforts and a lack of clear guidance hinder broader success.

The report emphasises the importance of improving training and partnerships to ensure fire services and other agencies can effectively protect vulnerable children, particularly those with special needs or neurodivergence.

Recommendations include expanding fire services’ role in prevention and intervention programmes to reduce harm.