Key priorities for tackling serious violence across West Yorkshire have been unveiled following one of the region’s largest public consultations, ahead of a new strategy co‑designed with local communities.
The consultation, which gathered 5,000 responses, highlighted strong public concern about knife crime, the influence of gangs and organised crime, and the need to reduce violence against women and girls. The findings will shape a dedicated serious violence strategy due to be launched later this year, fulfilling a major election pledge by Mayor Tracy Brabin.
Young respondents emphasised the importance of visible policing, support from community hubs, and access to safe outdoor spaces as crucial to improving their sense of safety.
Others taking part in the consultation pointed to the importance of education and early intervention, tackling gang culture, reducing the carrying of knives, and addressing online harms.
These insights will help guide the development of the region’s “people’s plan” for tackling serious violence.
The Mayor’s Police and Crime Plan has already placed a spotlight on serious violence, with several initiatives showing measurable success:
- Knife crime involving under‑25s fell by 16% in 2025, compared with the previous year.
- Robberies involving knives dropped by 18% over the same period.
- The Violence Reduction Partnership has supported more than 8,000 young people under 24 and almost 500 adults since April 2025.
- The Women’s Safety Unit is improving outcomes for victims, seen through rising numbers of Clare’s Law requests and increased use of Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders.
- High‑profile regional campaigns such as “Just Don’t” and “I Took a Seat” continue to reach and engage new audiences.
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said:
“I know how important tackling the scourge of serious violence is to our local communities, and they have told us exactly where they want us to focus.
“By working together, we can build upon our achievements, from reducing knife crime to making West Yorkshire safer for women and girls.
“This is a combined effort, but by listening to the needs of local residents, we can create a safer, fairer West Yorkshire for everyone.”
In January, the Mayor launched her People’s Fund, offering up to £100,000 in each of West Yorkshire’s five districts to support local groups working to prevent serious violence.
A range of community projects funded through the Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund, which uses money seized from criminals, are delivering vital support across the region.
These include:
Providing education on knife crime, criminal exploitation, grooming and drugs awareness, alongside cycle maintenance workshops to engage young people.
A Wake Youth Intervention programme offering safe, inclusive spaces for young people at risk of anti‑social behaviour, violence or criminal exploitation to explore identity, emotional wellbeing and aspirations.
Creating a safe environment for Black and minority ethnic women and girls affected by domestic abuse or honour‑based violence to share experiences, support one another and raise awareness.
The upcoming serious violence strategy will be co‑designed with residents, ensuring it reflects the priorities and lived experiences of communities across West Yorkshire.
With strong engagement from the public and early evidence of progress from ongoing initiatives, the region is building a long‑term, community‑led approach to preventing violence and improving safety for all.
Image credit: iStock
