Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), part of the wider Avon and Somerset VRP, is proud to announce the launch of an ambitious programme of pop-up youth hubs aimed at improving safety and reducing the risk of serious violence among young people in key locations across the county.
Whilst Somerset remains a safe place to live, the initiative is a direct response to rising serious violence trends across the UK since 2014 and aligns with the Home Office’s Serious Violence Strategy, which promotes a public health approach to violence prevention.
The programme builds on successful pilot projects delivered in Taunton and Bridgwater last year, which were developed following consultation with over 1,000 young people across Somerset. One of the key findings was a strong desire for more trusted adult presence in town centre hotspots.
Between July 2025 and March 2026, the Somerset VRP aims to commission providers to deliver 140 to 160 pop-up youth hubs in areas of identified need. These hubs will act as visible, accessible points for young people, their parents or guardians, and the wider community to engage with services, access advice, and share concerns about local safety.
Councillor Heather Shearer, Somerset Council Lead Member for Children, Families and Education, said:
Our young people have told us clearly what they need: more support, more guidance, and more trusted adults in their communities.
These youth hubs are a key part of our response, offering a safe and supportive space in the very places where concerns have been raised.
We’re proud to be working with our partners to deliver meaningful, community-led action.
Key aims of the youth hubs:
- Engage young people, parents, guardians, and the wider public in meaningful dialogue about town centre safety
- Raise awareness of youth safety issues such as anti-social behaviour, knife crime, substance misuse, exploitation, and violence against women and girls
- Provide signposting to services and activities available locally, particularly in Taunton and other hotspots
- Encourage community cohesion and improve reporting of safety concerns
- Help identify local risks through on-the-ground engagement
The pop-up hubs will be branded using the VRP “Highlight” identity and operate from accessible locations such as community centres, transport hubs, high streets, or other agreed public spaces.
Sessions will take place in town centres including Taunton, Bridgwater, Chard, and Glastonbury, as well as additional locations based on community need. Flexible “on demand” sessions will be agreed in consultation with local partners.
Providers will be supported with promotional materials, branded merchandise, and partnership contacts. They will be expected to take a proactive approach — engaging the public in conversations, sharing information, and promoting relevant youth campaigns and surveys.
The Somerset VRP’s work is strategically supported by the Safer Somerset Partnership and coordinated through the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office.
