In May 2024, the VPP launched “Stay True to You” – which is a counter-narrative and behavioural change approach which aims to empower young people to make more positive choices and stay safe.
It has been developed by the VPP with the support of behavioural change and communications specialists and was based on detailed research with young people and youth workers from across the Thames Valley.
The TRUE approach is primarily aimed at the adults around young people – not just parents/carers, but the broad range of practitioners who support young people, whether in paid positions or as volunteers.
It takes a deliberately positive approach, eschewing negative, consequence-laden campaigns, because this is what young people told us was most impactful and effective for them.
It seeks to reach those adults who young people do trust and listen to give them an understanding of the pressures young people face, the risks they encounter and the protective factors that can help keep them safe.
Importantly, it gives adults the skills to have good quality conversations, to listen and how to manage down the fear that drives knife crime.
It has a dedicated website – www.staytruetoyou.co.uk – containing resources for practitioners, for parents/carers and for young people.
There are online video-based training packages available to both parents/carers and for practitioners, along with supporting resources free to download.