A Violence Reduction Network (VRN) is a multi-agency forum and action group committed to reducing violence in our local community. The primary aim is to establish a series of trauma informed schools within the network to act as the corner stone for further problem solving activity in the area. The network will share good practice, identify common problems and design local solutions.
Areas we cover
We are working to reduce serious violence for all of the 2.4 million people who live in the Thames Valley, and the 6 million people who visit every year.
We work across all twelve local policing areas, nine local authorities and multiple district councils.
Who we are
We are a group of professionals working closely with the community to address the causes and effects of serious violence. Drawn from policing, education, social care and health, we work together to share our learning and ensure our activities are informed by the communities we are working to protect.
What we do
We work across several strands, with activity helping to prevent individuals from becoming involved in serious violence, and ensuring our response is working to prevent further violence from occurring.
Resources
Find out more about the resources we have developed to help teachers, community safety practitioners and community leaders to work with us to reduce violence and prevent harm, from early years to custody.
An introduction and link to the Loughborough University evidence-base paper for adopting ‘Child First’ approaches to the work of the Youth Justice System (YJS) of England and Wales
We recognise that substance use and other addictions affect the user as well as their loved ones, families and friends. We work closely with trusted statutory partners and charities that are able to provide support, especially whilst we are all affected by the impact of Coronavirus.
We work closely with and fully endorse the work of the PSHE Association and they have produced excellent resources for use during lockdown.
In partnership with West Mercia and Thames Valley Police, we have produced advice sheets for young people and parents/carers explaining the issue and giving guidance to prevent harm and links to additional support around cyber-bullying.
PSHE Resources to discuss County Drug Line exploitation, gangs and violence based upon the testimony of a convicted exploiter.
Events
Find opportunities to get involved in training or events to help reduce serious violence in your community.
Details of upcoming Oxford VRN sessions and how schools can join the network
Latest news
Read more about what we’ve been up to across the Thames Valley.
Stan Gilmour, Director of the Thames Valley VRU, has welcomed the election of Matthew Barber to the post of Police & Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley
Stan Gilmour, Director of the Thames Valley Violence Reduction Unit welcomes the latest results following Operation Sceptre, the national week of action to tackle knife crime.
PC Ben is the latest recruit in schools engagement.
#CutItOut campaign launched to tackle domestic abuse
Thames Valley Police will be one of four forces to trial the introduction of new post-conviction powers to further tackle knife crime and violence.
TVVRU supports PhD opportunity researching education inequalities with the University of Sheffield