REDUCING VIOLENCE &
EXPLOITATION TOGETHER

bedfordshire violence & Exploitation REDUCTION unit

WHO WE ARE

The Bedfordshire Violence and Exploitation Reduction Unit (VERU) is a network of different agencies and groups aiming to tackle the root causes of things like gang membership and prevent young people becoming involved in all aspects of gang criminality and exploitation. We have specialist support and advice to help you, whether you are a young person directly involved, have concerns about a family member or friend, or work in this area and want to learn more about what we do.

YOUNG PEOPLE

PROFESSIONALS

WHAT WE DO

We are so grateful to all the different projects, partners and people we worked with during our first few months tackling violence and exploitation in Bedfordshire. We look forward to continuing this work together.

VERU in View is our monthly newsletter where we share our latest projects, activities and accomplishments.

Click the button below to join our mailing list.

LATEST NEWS

News

VERU and PCC join forces for second successful youth conference

Hundreds of teenagers have attended conferences organised by Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Bedfordshire’s Violence and Exploitation Unit (VERU) last week as part of a major drive to raise awareness about issues like knife crime and violence against women and girls.

News

VERU success as over 100 young people reached through school absenteeism

More than 100 young people have engaged with a pilot project delivered by Bedfordshire’s Violence and Exploitation Reduction Unit.

News

VERU showcases its work tackling violence and exploitation

Earlier this week we hosted dozens of officials at the Hat Factory in Luton on Wednesday (25 January), highlighting work and commissioned projects which have reached thousands of young people.

OUR LATEST

Stephen Lawrence Day

Our VERU Village came together to remember Stephen Lawrence and outline what his legacy means to them. Thank you to everyone who contributed.

OUR WORK INVOLVES

Step 1

1. Primary Prevention

Stopping violence before it begins

Step 1

Step 2

2. Secondary Prevention
Halting the progression of violence as early as possible (early detection and prompt, effective intervention by providing positive alternatives)
Step 2

Step 3

3. Tertiary Prevention

Providing a way out for those established in violent behaviour and those affected as victims.

Step 3

Step 4

4. Enforcement & Criminal Justice
Disrupting criminality that often involves violence.
Step 4

Step 5

5. Attitude Change

Changing societal views towards violence, including individual views and community views

Step 5

LET'S STOP VIOLENCE

Knife crime and violence does not discriminate against its victims. As a community we are all affected by the hurt and loss of life. Talking to someone you can trust can help.

Young black male standing in front of graffiti
OUR PARTNERS
We are working with local councils and key organisations to achieve our goals.
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Logo
Bedford Borough Council Logo
Luton Borough Council Logo
Central Bedfordshire Council Logo
Home Office Logo

CONTACT US

Get in touch, even if it is to say hello. At Bedfordshire VERU we are always interested in exploring possible links and opportunities to work with others.