We are Bedfordshire’s Violence and Exploitation Reduction Unit (VERU). Established in 2019, through government funding, we are one of 22 specialist units across the UK and the only unit to place an emphasis on the link between violence and exploitation.

A network of different agencies and groups aiming to tackle the root causes of societal issues that affect young people, we work with partners to prevent our young and vulnerable people from being pulled into criminality, violence and exploitation.

Our team is made up of specialist professionals able to provide informed support and advice to help young people and families to better understand the risks and signs of exploitation and criminality, navigate challenging circumstances and make positive contributions to the wider community.