Prevent 2 Protect
Prevent 2 Protect was set up with a focus in safeguarding children and young people from criminal gang issues. It works mainly in areas in the North West including in Salford, Bolton and Darwen. The organisation delivers educational workshops called ‘Gang for Life’ to those young people identified as being at risk of gang activity. It pairs educational workshops with physical activities to promote good physical and mental wellbeing and to improve self-confidence. Sessions are delivered by people with lived experience of being in a gang and being in prison. By speaking with people who had been part of gang culture and suffered the consequences, young people can understand what is like being recruited and exploited by gangs. Hearing from reformed gang members has a huge impact and gives them the opportunities to talk about their own experiences and offers them opportunities to take a different path to a more positive future.
In June 2024, the Allen Lane Foundation awarded funding of £5,000 to Prevent 2 Protect. The grant will contribute towards the delivery costs of Gang for Life sessions, and help to benefit upto around 1,000 young people. As a result of the interventions, anticipated outcomes are that the young people will have increased confidence, increased life opportunities away from gangs, and improved health, self-esteem and wellbeing.
