Partnership with Violence Reduction Unit (VRU)

In 2021, LIFEbeat worked with the Violence Reduction Unit to deliver a series of 6 x weekly, 2 hour interventions for vulnerable young people in Mendip and Yeovil (South Somerset).

The goal was to build trust and community with some of the more isolated and at risk young people who are struggling to engage with other external agencies. By building trust through a short series of dog handling and other interventions, the programmes aims were to raise self esteem, positive relationships and a feeling of community for these young people. Working in collaboration with local YMCA youth clubs and youth workers, the programme aimed to build a bridge between these centres and some of the more at risk , isolated young people within their communities.

Following the 6 weekly interventions, all those who had taken part in the programme attended an online LIFEbeat workshop in which they shared their experiences of the programme with others, which helped to form a greater sense of community and belonging.

Somerset Exclusion Film

Research indicates that children who are excluded from school are at a higher risk of violence and exploitation, becoming a victim or perpetrator of crime. 

A needs assessment carried out on behalf of Avon and Somerset Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) stated that against the backdrop of disrupted delivery due to the pandemic, reducing the number of exclusions – through schools engagement and early intervention – must remain a focus in tackling serious violence in our communities.

LIFEbeat was commissioned to produce this film to raise awareness and understanding of the complex impacts of school exclusion on individuals, their families, and the wider community.

Somerset Exclusion Film Trailer (Gani Naylor, 2021)

Impact and Evaluation

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working in partnership with LIFEbeat, supporting vulnerable young people in the local community. The joint approach has meant we have successfully provided opportunities for young people while bringing services together for the benefit of them. The most memorable part of this experience has been the breakthrough achieved with these young people, which has enabled me to further support these young people beyond the interventions”.

Chiara Doherty, Youth Leader, Frome YMCA

LIFEbeat has given me the opportunity to do what I love.

With the help of my dogs we nurture confidence, encourage participation and develop self esteem in the young people we work with. Teaching a new skill, in a fun and supportive environment allows the young person to show their brightness and intelligence and develops their enthusiasm for learning. 

It has been emotional for me to see the impact we can have on these young people, and how eager they are to learn but also to see the development in their well-being. I believe we create a safe environment, where the young person can be themselves and this is why we see them genuinely laugh, have fun and surprise themselves.

Ann Swift, Dog Trainer and Facilitator.