WECA Mayor Reveals Regional Office’s Violence Prevention Plans

WECA Mayor Dan Norris said, “This is a problem we all need to solve together.”

Pensioner Dan Norris, wearing a dark jacket, light shirt and blue tie, smiles directly at the camera as he walks down the corridor. — WECA Mayor Dan Norris said, “This is a problem we all need to solve together.”

The region’s mayor has announced he is investing in a new office that will focus on preventing knife crime and serious violence in a bid to “save lives” before incidents happen.

West of England Mayor Dan Norris confirmed plans to create the UK’s first Violence Prevention Authority during a visit to the Empire Fighting Chance boxing gym in Bristol.

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Claire Moody said there was often talk about responding to incidents, but “prevention is how we save lives”.

Mr Norris said: “Serious violence is a problem for all of us, so it’s a problem we all need to solve together.”

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He added: “This approach has been tested in other regions around the world.

“I am delighted to make this announcement to Empire Fighting Chance, which is already involved in tackling knife crime in our towns and market towns to give young people the chance to change their lives.

“By working with the police, the NHS and key partners, we can make the region safer.”

Police Commissioner Claire Moody said something needed to be done to give young people “hope”.

Avon and Somerset Police Claire, wearing a red top and dark jacket, smiles at the camera with short black hair. — Police Commissioner Claire Moody said something needed to be done to give young people “hope”.

Ms Moody said young people “need hope”.

“This is not just a police issue and must involve partners who work effectively on prevention, intervention and long-term solutions to address the root causes of knife crime,” she said.

Plans for investment in the Violence Prevention Authority were due to be submitted to the West of England Joint Committee of Mayors in January, officials said.