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.

Group Sessions and Assemblies:

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.

Mentoring Programs:

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.

Intensive Preventative Sessions:

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.

Educating Program:

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.

Addressing Unique Needs:

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.

Professional Development Sessions:

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.

Training for Parents and Carers:

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.