Good news for Greater Manchester. Young Futures Hubs are being rolled out to help tackle knife crime, support young people’s mental health, and create more opportunities for those at risk of being left behind.
Manchester is in the first wave. But I’ve made it clear to ministers that Oldham must be next, not least of all because young people increasingly do not stay in single local authority areas for school, socialising and travel to meet friends and family.
I’ve written directly to the Government setting out why. The reality is that too many young people in communities are still vulnerable to criminal exploitation and serious violence. We can’t keep relying on crisis interventions after the damage is done. It is concerning too that there remains gaps in provision in areas such as Westwood, Freehold, Limeside and Fitton Hill, and elsewhere. Many local groups do support young people but often lack secure premises and specialist staff.
Young Futures Hubs bring support together under one roof like youth services, mental health support, education and crime prevention.
I’ve now received a positive response from the Government. They’ve acknowledged the challenges facing Oldham and confirmed that Greater Manchester, including Oldham, is already part of the Young Futures Panels programme. They’re also in the process of selecting the next wave of Hub locations.
Every young person should have somewhere to go, someone to turn to, and the chance to build a better future. That’s what this is about.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 