Residents in areas blighted by gang activity and violence are being urged to come forward and help the Police Commissioner deliver his £2 million package of anti-crime measures.

West Midlands Police Commissioner David Jamieson set aside the cash to fund initiatives such as getting trained negotiators to ease hostilities between rival gangs and find mentors or activities, or work for young people at risk of falling into criminal activity.

And writing on BirminghamLive today he is issuing a call to communities to give their opinions, ideas and value of their front line experience to ensure the money is spent in the most effective manner.

His commission, which was chaired by Bishop Derek Webley, was made up of police, expert criminologists, former gang members and the families of murder victims. It came up with a series of recommendations.

Alison Cope, mother of Joshua Ribera
Alison Cope, mother of Joshua Ribera

Among them is Alison Cope, whose son Joshua Ribera was stabbed and killed in September 2013. Speaking when the commission’s report was published she said: “Behind every report is a child. This report is to potentially save the lives of your children.

She added: “Our children are dead, our children are not coming back, this is about your children.”

Among support to help youngsters avoid a life of crime the Police commissioner has also encouraged the establishment of new Police Cadet Unit in areas affected by gangs and violence.

Some of the cash is also going to help offenders leaving prison find work or training - to break the cycle of crime.

Bishop Derek Webley and Commissioner David Jamieson

Mr Jamieson said: “I want local people to get involved with the work of the Commission on Gangs and Violence.

“It is local people who best know how projects should be delivered in their areas, that is why I want them to have a say and join the Commission. It is only with the support of local communities that we can beat the gangs and get the weapons off our streets.

“There are no quick fixes to tackling gangs and violence in our city and it is not just about enforcement. The police cannot do all the work alone. It is about all agencies working together. Most of all though it is about working with communities and helping them to keep their streets safe.”

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