'Tough kids' get creative in support of anti-violence project

Youngsters who have overcome adversity have been getting creative as part of an anti-violence project.

Ahead of the arrival of the ‘anti-violence bee’ to Derbyshire, groups at Engineered Learning in Derby saw the force’s appeal for people to get creative and make bees in response to the visit, and have made a one-of-a-kind ornament.

Using the engineering skills and experience they have learned through the initiative, they crafted a steel bee which involved 12 hours of work by 16 young a total of 16 young people.

The bee also has their ‘tough stuff by tough kids’ motto engraved on the side.

Engineered Learning support and empower young people aged 11 to 30 from some of our most deprived areas to succeed and achieve through engineering.

The team specialise in supporting people to get qualifications and training who have perhaps struggled at school, have educational needs or require support outside of the curriculum, as well as helping divert those at risk of becoming involved in crime.

The ‘anti-violence bee’, which is made of weapons taken from the streets of Manchester, is travelling around Derbyshire until 22 December 2022, and is a symbol of the county’s firm stance against any form of violence.

The aim of the bee is to begin conversation around anti-violence and what police, partners and the community can do to continue to prevent this, and these efforts are showing some of the impact the bee is already having.

Dan Read, Managing Director of Engineered Learning, said: “Supporting young people to build a positive view of our police force is a very important step towards building cohesive communities that are safe for all and we are proud that our young people were able to take part in this very valuable project. 

“We work with young people across the city and Derbyshire as an alternative education provider, helping young people to gain the skills employers are looking for. 

“We know from our 10-year experience of working with schools, businesses and organisations that when young people are engaged in this way, that they are much more likely to positively engage in school, at home and in our communities and we are delighted to support this very worthy project.”

As well as this, and whilst Derbyshire is absolutely a safe place to live, work and visit, bringing this to Derbyshire is a symbol that communities will not tolerate violence in any form, from domestic violence to knife and gun crime.

However, when violence does happen, people should feel safe in the knowledge that they can report it, it will be taken seriously and it will be thoroughly investigated.

More information on how you can report crime can be found at: Report a crime | Derbyshire Constabulary