This week, Xaverian College hosted the Greater Manchester Colleges’ Safety Roadshow, to promote a range of support services available within the local area to students.

The Roadshow, which was first introduced in February 2022, aims to address the underlying causes of violence, and work together with communities to prevent it.

Throughout the day, students had to the opportunity to meet with professionals, participate in discussions and gain access to specialist resources.

Sarah Martin, Safeguarding Manager at Xaverian, commented: “I am really pleased that we have been able to welcome the Greater Manchester Colleges’ Safety Roadshow. It is extremely important that we create opportunities for our students to connect with local organisations and it is great to see them sharing their experiences alongside gaining valuable tips for keeping themselves and others safe.”

The College welcomed organisations such as, NHS North West Ambulance Service, Kooth, Greater Manchester Police, Eclypse, The Children’s Society, Remedi and TravelSafe Partnership.

The GM Navigator Project, commissioned by the Violence Reduction Unit, are one of the teams’ visiting schools and colleges across the region as part of the Roadshow.

Hannah Barton, GM Navigator Project Lead said: “This roadshow is a fantastic opportunity to meet young people and enable them to understand where and how to get support if they or someone they know needs it. Giving young people the space to discuss youth violence and sharing knowledge of where they can get help is so important in tackling issues of safety within the community.”

Rebecca Bromley-Woods, Education Lead at Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit, commented: “Through conversation we can bust the myths around violence and knife crime which are often exacerbated by the media, and promote how young people can keep themselves and their friends safe.

“Actions can often have unintended consequences, and anyone can find themselves in a situation where they need support to make a change. The organisations attending the Roadshow are highly experienced in supporting young people through difficult situations as well as delivering prevention activity.”

The Roadshow is available to all Greater Manchester FE colleges and sixth form college between May and December 2022. Contact Rebecca.bromley-woods@greatermancehster-ca.gov.uk to secure a date.

Article posted on: 10/05/2022 02:05pm