What We Do
Empowering Youth Engagement From Exploitation
The number of drug-related knife crimes and stabbings around Leeds has increased substantially since the emergence and development of County Lines, including a rise in deaths.
Introduction
On The Verge is a Leeds CIC which stands as a beacon of hope, actively engaging with children and young people between the ages of 9 to 18 to address critical issues such as County Lines, Knife Crime, Gangs Joint Enterprise, Online Safety, Reality of Prisons, Serious Youth Violence, CCE (Child Criminal Exploitation), CSE (Child Sexual Exploitation), Grooming, Exploitation, and the Glamourisation of Music. This comprehensive description delves into the organisation’s multifaceted approach, encompassing group sessions, mentoring, assemblies, intensive weekly preventative sessions, one-to-one mentoring, and targeted education programs for Professionals, Parents, and Carers.
On The Verge understands the power of collective engagement. Group sessions serve as a platform for open dialogue, allowing young individuals to share their thoughts, concerns, and experiences. These sessions, carefully curated to be age-appropriate, address a spectrum of issues, fostering critical thinking and self-awareness.
Assemblies, a larger-scale initiative, amplify the impact by reaching broader audiences. By addressing topics like County Lines, Knife Crime Gangs, and the Glamourisation of Music, On The Verge brings attention to often overlooked issues, sparking conversations that transcend the confines of individual group sessions.
Mentorship is at the heart of On The Verge's approach. Experienced mentors guide young minds on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and personal growth. These one-to-one relationships provide tailored support, recognizing the unique needs of everyone.
For children and young people identified as at risk of exploitation, gang involvement, and serious youth violence, On The Verge offers intensive weekly preventative sessions. These sessions, strategically designed to address risk factors and promote protective factors, form a crucial line of defence against potential harm.
On The Verge's educating program is a well-structured initiative with a clear mission: to identify and support children and young people at risk of youth violence and exploitation. The program's focal point is one-to-one mentoring, ensuring a personalised and impactful approach.
Recognising the diverse challenges faced by at-risk individuals, On The Verge tailors its programs to address their unique needs. Whether it's County Lines, Knife Crime or the Reality of Prisons, each aspect is approached with sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to positive change.
On The Verge extends its impact beyond direct engagement with youth to professionals working in various capacities, such as County Lines & Knife Crime These sessions are meticulously designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of gang involvement and exploitation. By fostering a deeper understanding, On The Verge contributes to a more informed and empathetic professional landscape.
The organisation recognises that parents and carers play a pivotal role in a child's life. Leveraging lived experiences, On The Verge offers unique and valuable training sessions for parents and carers. These sessions explore the realities and consequences of issues like County Lines, Knife Crime, Online Safety, Glamourisation of Music, Exploitation, and Serious Violence. By providing first-hand insights, On The Verge facilitates meaningful conversations and empowers parents and carers to actively support their children.
Conclusion
On The Verge’s holistic and proactive approach to youth engagement in Leeds, Yorkshire stands as a model for empowering the next generation. Through group sessions, mentorship programs, assemblies, intensive preventative sessions, educating programs, and targeted professional and parent/carer sessions, the organisation creates a comprehensive framework for positive change. On The Verge’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of at-risk individuals reflects a profound understanding of the challenges faced by young minds today. In doing so, the organisation not only works towards preventing harm but also actively contributes to shaping a safer, more informed, and supportive community for all.
On The Verge Sessions
Primary
- - CORE Sessions -
- Gangs
- Weapon Awareness
- - EXTRA Sessions -
- Online Safety
- Behaviour
- Choice Time Adventure
- Healthy Relationships
- Joint Enterprise
- Positive & Negative
- Positive Navigation
- Reflect & Learn
Secondary
- - CORE Sessions -
- Knife Crime
- County Lines
- Realities Of Prison
- Gangs
- Girl Gangs
- System
- - EXTRA Sessions -
- Conflict Resolutions
- Impulsive & Risky Behaviour
- Joint Enterprise
- Positive & Negative Peers
- Healthy Relationships
- Confidence & Resilience
- Decision Making
- Glamourisation Of Music
- Online Safety
- Reflective Thinking
- Victim Awareness
Parents / Carers
- County Lines
- Online Safety
- Glamourisation Of Music
- Trauma Informed
- Recognising & Responding to Child Exploitation
Professionals
- County Lines
- Glamourisation Of Music
- Restorative Practice
- Trauma Informed
- Recognising & Responding to Child Exploitation