Today, Catch22 begins delivering the new Support Through Exploitation and Prevention Service (STEPS) commissioned by the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner.
With over ten years of experience supporting victims of child exploitation across England, Catch22 is bringing this knowledge to West Mercia to provide both preventative support and expert care to children who are impacted by child criminal and child sexual exploitation.
West Mercia covers a large area, with lots of small, dispersed communities, spanning several counties; limited transport links can make it hard for children and young people to access services. This can leave children feeling socially isolated and make them vulnerable to grooming and exploitation. That is why we’re thrilled to be partnering with Willowdene to help strengthen our connections with local communities and ensure we take a united approach to reduce child exploitation across West Mercia.
We will also deliver a prevention and awareness programme, facilitating workshops and training to professionals, children, parents, and carers to increase understanding around grooming and exploitation. Our exciting partnership with Brightstar Boxing, will ensure a seamless pathway into diversionary sports activities across West Mercia.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said:
“Too often the most vulnerable in our society are exploited by dangerous criminals who prey on young people. That’s why it’s absolutely vital that there is a strong enforcement response to identify offenders and take them off our streets, as well as an expert-led service that supports victims, and those at risk of exploitation, to cope and recover.
“As PCC, I am proud to commission Catch22’s landmark service provision which has been shaped by victims, offering them the comprehensive support they need whilst building on successful initiatives that are already changing lives in West Mercia.”
At Catch22, we believe the best services come from listening to the young people we work with. So, we invited two groups of young people from West Mercia, along with our Youth Forum (made up of young people who’ve previously been supported by Catch22), to help us choose the name for the service.
A young person who helped to name the new service told us:
“The name’s straightforward and easy to remember. It suggests a journey forward and positive progress.”
Another young person shared their enthusiasm:
“Yes! Yes! Yes!”
Learn more about STEPS here.