Talking Point - How can conflicts be resolved without turning to violence?

Last month, Stephen Lewis became the latest teenager to fall victim to gang violence and knife crime. He was reportedly attacked by a gang in Plaistow, knifed repeatedly in the chest and left to die in his sister's arms. He was later pronounced dead at hospital.

The 15-year-old's death was even more shocking as it took place as he left an event organised by a youth charity that campaigns against violence. Local young people say there is a growing rift between gangs in rival postcodes E13 and E16.

However, anti-crime campaigners say that, despite the event's horrific outcome, it is vital that youth workers across the UK continue to work closely with young people to address conflict and push for conciliation.

Among those to issue such a call is Slough-based charity Aik Saath, which specialises in conflict resolution techniques. Aik Saath says it is important that youth workers are not afraid to start conversations about conflict between different local groups. They need to address the causes and extent of the problem and how it affects young people and the wider community.

A "conflict tree" is one way of doing this. This technique invites those in a group discussion to first look at the root of a problem. This helps to develop an understanding of the causes, which are often trivial. The trunk of the tree represents issues that are holding up the problem and preventing an end to the conflict. Finally, the leaves and branches of the tree are used to represent the effect of conflict on the area.

During this discussion, young people can consider how conflict between rival groups can be resolved. Conciliation meetings, concerts and events can work, despite the tragic events in Plaistow. Questions they need to consider are: what do rival gangs have in common and what type of event or meeting would best heal wounds? What do they think of the events in Plaistow? Does it put them off organising or attending such an event in their area? Or does the death of Stephen Lewis make them more determined to heal rifts?

Addressing rivalry and conflict among young people is a long-term commitment. Such problems are not solved overnight. Youth workers can help to address problems over time by continuing to promote community cohesion and showing the devastating effect of conflict on communities. This also helps ensure that minor squabbles do not become fully blown turf wars.

Another question worth posing is: what other ways are there to solve rivalries? The young people of Plaistow know only too well the consequences of only opting for violence.