Health
We recognise that health inequalities, poor environments, lack of provision for neurodiverse conditions and addiction can be at the root of serious violence.
The Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership has taken a pioneering look at some of these issues with the support of expert organisations.
We work closely with public health professionals, including doctors, nurses, local authorities, and mental health counsellors to get to the root of issues that cause violence.
Led by our Health Lead, Trauma Consultant Nikhil Misra, our Healthcare Professionals Network brings together clinicians, NHS decision-makers, police, community groups and other violence reduction units to discuss the role they could play in supporting victims of violence, intervening early during the patient’s journey, and providing crucial links that can support that individual and their family and break the cycle of violence.
Find out more about how we take a Public Health Approach to tackling serious violence
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Operating in Merseyside’s three busiest Accident & Emergency departments, this pioneering project sees specially trained youth workers team up with hospital staff to identify young people affected by serious violence.
Working together they put plans in place to help them to cope and recover and assist with access to local support networks to prevent the potential of further violence.
KnifeSavers
We are proud to support the work of pioneering local not-for-profit.
Created by trauma surgeon and our Health Lead, Nikhil Misra, KnifeSavers empowers people, especially young people to deal with bleeding caused by knife injuries through Bleed Control Kits, an education programme, and a step-by-step app.
StreetDoctors
Created by medics, this programme offers trauma-informed training to young people in disadvantaged areas, which empowers them to become part of the solution to violence through emergency first aid training and increasing their understanding of the medical and psychological consequences of violence. This national project has recently been enhanced through the launch of a new App.
Neurodiversity
We have been working with The Brain Charity and others, to measure the impact of neurodiverse conditions on the Criminal Justice System and examine how better understanding could increase the support for those with neurodiverse needs and help to prevent reoffending.
As a result this research Another Sign – Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice System, the MVRP commissioned the Brain Charity to deliver training for staff working in the Criminal Justice System and look to take forward the other recommendations detailed in their report.
Club Health Conference
We know making the night-time economy safer will help to prevent incidents of violence.
By supporting the return of the International Club Health Conference on Nightlife, Substance Use and Related Health Issues back to Liverpool, 26 years after it was launched here at the world famous Cream nightclub, we are focused on sharing research, policy initiatives and projects that can make our nightlife safer.
Gambling Harms
We recognise the role that issues with gambling can lead to debt, family breakdown and mental health issues, which can act as a trigger for violence.
Working with Beacon Counselling Trust, we hosted one of the first events in the region to increase understanding of this issue which in turn informed our campaign to provide advice for those experiencing gambling harms and help them to access support and guidance.
In May 2024, we supported a further conference was held focused on taking a whole family approach to gambling related harms, held in partnership wiht NHS Primary Care Gambling Service (PCGS), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), Forward Trust and Leeds Trinity University presents:
The event, supported by a wide range of professionals, academics and Lived Experience speakers, explored current research, practice applications, insight and current developments and initiatives in addressing gambling harms across our communities.
