A new campaign aimed at tackling the negative image of young Londoners and inviting others in the capital to celebrate the contribution they make will be launched later today.
The campaign’s name – 99 per cent – is inspired by figures suggesting that less than 1 per cent of youngsters in the capital are involved in committing serious youth violence.
Anti-knife crime campaigner Brooke Kinsella, whose brother Ben was murdered two years ago, said: “We should never lose sight of the fact that most young people are hard working and law abiding – the 99 per cent should be celebrated across the capital. I hope this campaign will help encourage even more young people across London to make a positive contribution in their local community.”
Organisers say the campaign, which is being backed by pan-London body London Councils, has been developed in conjunction with young people and the Young Peace Champions and comes after youngsters taking part in a London Serious Youth Violence Board (LSYVB) workshop voiced concerns over their portrayal in the media.
LSYVB Chair Will Tuckley said: “We know that youth violence is a major challenge in our city, but we also know that we are not doing enough to promote the 99 per cent that aren’t involved in it. Our survey has reminded us of how far off the public’s perceptions are from the reality on the streets of London, and our young people are telling us they want a more accurate picture portrayed.”
The campaign website provides young people with information about events and opportunities in their local area and across London where they can get involved, learn, develop new skills or volunteer their time.
Website: www.99percent.org.uk
