The Reach Programme

The Reach Programme is a secondary prevention initiative which seeks to prevent escalation of the causes of violence through tackling them at an early stage. In the case of this programme the primary focus is supporting improved school attendance and engagement and preventing exclusion. The programme works with 11-16 year olds in secondary schools. The programme is delivered by Leicester City Councils and Leicestershire County Council youth services in partnership with 14 pilot schools. Access to the programme is through these schools who identify children with reference to an agreed criteria.

The programme is an intensive six-month mentoring programme delivered by youth workers. At-risk young people receive Social Skills Training, support with their confidence and wellbeing, and opportunities to participate in recreational activity (e.g. sports, arts and music). The Youth Worker will also provide support to the young person’s family and work with their friends.

It is funded by the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) (YEF) who have also commissioned an evaluation of the programme by Sheffield Hallam University (in progress).

In the City, the programme is currently being delivered in the following schools:

Babington Academy
Beaumont Leys Community College
Brook Mead Academy
Crown Hills Community College
Fullhurst Community College
Judgemeadow Community College
Lancaster Academy
Orchard Mead Academy
Soar Valley College

In the County, the programme is currently being delivered in the following schools:

Humphrey Perkins School
Iveshead School
Limehurst Academy
The Castle Rock School
The Newbridge School

Referrals for The Reach Programme come directly from the schools above.