Young Futures Panels

About Young Futures Panels

The Violence Reduction Network (VRN) partnership is currently preparing to launch a pilot Young Futures panel in Leicestershire and a pathfinder panel in Leicester City.

 

Young Futures Panels are a multi-agency initiative designed to identify and support children who may be vulnerable to involvement in knife crime, anti-social behaviour (ASB), and violence against women and girls (VAWG). These panels aim to reach children who are often ‘unseen’ by services, as well as those who are visible but not adequately supported. They form part of the Government’s Young Futures Programme, under the Safer Streets mission, with the overarching goal of reducing ASB, crime, and harm through earlier intervention and tailored support.

 

Local Awareness and Engagement

These panels are being introduced in the local area, and we encourage everyone to be aware of the early intervention work taking place. The panels are designed to be collaborative and community-focused, offering children meaningful support and opportunities to thrive.

 

Eligibility Criteria

County Pilot Panel (Hinckley and Bosworth): Using Home Office mandatory criteria, eligible children are those aged 10–17 who have been named as a suspect in one or more crimes in the past 12 months, with no prosecution or community resolution. Additional indicators of vulnerability are also considered. A second referral pathway for children involved in ASB is currently in development.

 

City Pathfinder Panel (West, East, and South Leicester): Using discretionary criteria, eligible children are aged 10–13 who have received one or more suspensions or exclusions from school in the past year - known risk factors for future involvement in ASB, crime, and violence. Other vulnerability indicators are also used to ensure appropriate support.

 

Design and Support Offer

A multi-agency design group has shaped the local approach, including data sharing agreements and service mapping. Children and communities have been actively involved in the design process to ensure the offer is relevant, responsive, and voluntary.

 

Each child supported by the panel will be allocated a youth worker for 8–12 weeks, who will provide mentoring and act as a navigator to help access suitable community-based activities. This ensures progress is sustained beyond panel involvement and promotes positive engagement and long-term outcomes.

 

If you’re interested in hearing more about Young Futures Panels, please contact: vrn@leics.pcc.pnn.gov.uk