Youth voices shape safer streets in Nottinghamshire

Over 100 students from Farnborough Spencer Academy and The Bulwell Academy have shared powerful ideas on tackling crime and improving safety as part of a pioneering Youth Listening Project.

Two dedicated sessions were held at the schools, where facilitators worked with students to discuss their experiences, feelings of safety, and ideas for improving their communities.

These sessions are part of a wider initiative funded by the Safer Streets programme, led by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire.

The project aims to ensure young people’s voices are at the forefront of efforts to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour while empowering them to play an active role in shaping safer communities.

During the sessions, students shared a range of ideas, reflecting their lived experiences and unique perspectives.

Suggestions included:

· Increased CCTV coverage near parks and bus stops to deter crime and make public spaces feel safer.

· Better lighting poorly lit areas around schools and residential streets.

· Youth-focused community events, such as sports activities and workshops, to provide positive outlets and foster a sense of belonging.

· Increased police visibility during peak times when students are travelling to and from school.

Kev Davis Head Teacher at Farnborough Spencer Academy said: “The Safer Streets project has given our students a great opportunity to voice their opinions about what matters to them about staying safe in their communities.

“Through this project our students have carried out wider research to capture the views of their peers and have become confident spokespeople to champion the views of young people in Clifton.”

Matt Irons Acting Head of School at The Bulwell Academy said: “Working on the project has been an enriching experience for the students, who have not only thoroughly enjoyed the collaborative process but have also deepened their understanding of crime prevention and community engagement.

“They’ve learned the importance of active participation in fostering safer, more connected communities”

The students were also encouraged to discuss their personal feelings of safety, highlighting areas where they feel vulnerable and suggesting practical solutions to address these concerns.

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: "Young people have a unique and valuable perspective on crime and safety in their communities.

“Through the Youth Listening Project, we are ensuring their voices are heard and their ideas are at the heart of our efforts to make Nottinghamshire safer.

“The energy and creativity shown by the students at Farnborough Spencer Academy and The Bulwell Academy have been inspiring, and I am excited to see how their ideas will help shape future initiatives."

The ideas gathered during the sessions in October are now being reviewed, with a small group of students from both schools selected to form a Youth Board. This board will work alongside local authorities and other partners to develop the proposals further and ensure young people remain central to decision-making.

The Youth Listening Project reflects Commissioner Godden’s commitment to working in partnership with schools, the Violence Reduction Partnership, and Nottingham Trent University to deliver safer streets and more inclusive communities.

Luke Parmenter Collective Impact Manager at Nottingham Trent University said: “"There are no better experts on what it is like to be a young person than young people themselves.

“Their lived experiences provide invaluable insight into what is needed to make their streets safer, and their voices must be at the heart of decision-making.

“Through a series of workshops, Nottingham Trent University has had the privilege of equipping young people with the tools to influence policy and drive meaningful change in their communities. Their contributions are shaping a safer, more inclusive city for all."

The Youth Listening Project is just one part of Nottinghamshire’s broader efforts to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour.

The Safer Streets project has also seen the instillation of new HD-CCTV cameras, new automatic number plate recognition cameras and environmental improvements.

Superintendent for Nottingham City Chris Pearson said: “It is vitally important that we listen to our young people and their ideas and suggestions on how we can make their communities safer.

“It is important that we don’t only listen but actually put into action any initiatives which will benefit their safety and work with our partners across the city and county to ensure this is achievable.”

By working directly with young people, the initiative is creating opportunities for positive change and giving the next generation a platform to contribute to safer streets and stronger communities.

To report antisocial behaviour in your neighbourhood, call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or visit the web page linked below to report.

Report antisocial behaviour | Nottinghamshire Police

In an emergency, you should always call 999.