The gut-wrenching anguish, the suffocating fear, the relentless questions what more could or should have been done. Now imagine that same family being shut out of the very conversations and decisions that could prevent other families from experiencing that same nightmare. This isn’t hypothetical make believe, it is the reality. It is time we recognise that any solution to this pervasive issue is incomplete without their involvement and support. It is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic necessity. Who better understands the needs of young people than those who have raised them? Parents possess invaluable insights into their children’s lives and can offer unique perspectives on effective prevention and intervention strategies. Their voices can illuminate the dark corners where policy falls short and where community efforts may fail to reach.
We have seen that with lived experience and co-produced services, the outcomes can be profound. So why not do the same with families? It would mean going beyond mere consultation; it would mean actively integrating them into decision-making processes. It would mean providing them with resources to heal and advocate for change. It would mean creating platforms where their experiences are not just heard but are instrumental in shaping policies and programmes aimed at curbing youth violence. By giving them a platform to share their stories and ideas, we empower them to be agents of change in their communities. This inclusivity fosters a sense of unity and purpose, reminding us that we are all in this together – a statement politicians are swift to say, but often prevaricate over when it comes to fulfilling in practice.
In fact, the rhetoric around parents and families is one often of blame or vilification. I have often heard questions like ‘Where were you?’, ‘What were you doing?’ levelled at families whose children became groomed. Many of the structures supplement this; when a child has a wobble, families which are already vulnerable are frequently fined. There are correlations, but, as the data has shown, victims of exploitation or violence can be anyone. Families are often a protective factor and empowering them fosters resilience within the community. When parents are supported, they become beacons of strength for others facing similar trials. They can lead by example, showing that from the depths of personal tragedy can arise a collective force for good.
As we forge ahead in search of solutions, let us pledge to no longer sideline those who hold pieces of the puzzle we seek to solve. Let us commit to placing families at the forefront, ensuring they have a voice in every conversation, a seat at every table. For it is only together, hand in hand with those who have endured the greatest loss, that we can hope to protect our young people from the shadows that seek to claim them.
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Junior Smart is founder of SOS Project St Giles and director of Smart Training and Consultancy
