A community is a group of people who interact with each other because they live locally or have shared interests. The issues faced by different members of a local community are vast and varied. For instance, young people may well have different problems to older people living in the same area.
Understandably, safety is a prime concern of many people. High-profile reporting of violent crimes has served to heighten levels of fear and suspicion within communities. Some young people are carrying knives and joining gangs for protection. A lack of positive activities and safe places for young people to hang out are seen to contribute to this.
Many people feel that the media’s focus on violent and anti-social youths creates a wider fear of all young people and inter-generational misunderstanding. The use of a hooded top as a symbol of youth violence means that every day, law-abiding exemplary young people feel discriminated against and feared in their community. Consequently young people lose trust in the police - aggressive stop-and-search tactics can alienate them further.
It doesn’t need to be this way! Communities can play a key role in promoting tolerance and respect. There are many different cultures in Britain, with new waves of immigration constantly changing our cultural landscape. This can lead to communities discovering each other cultures, foods, religions, traditions and dress. This can also result in racial tensions, but communities can promote understanding by working together and by celebrating diversity.
Otherinfo:
Taking action!
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Volunteer regularly at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen
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Organise a sleep out to raise awareness of homelessness
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Gun / knife crime awareness day
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Debate the issue of crime with local MP, police, ex- offenders etc
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Organise school martial arts club or after school activities to occupy young people
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Peer education workshops with younger years
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Put on a play to raise awareness of domestic violence
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Events to celebrate the talents of positive contributions of young people to society
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Produce a rap to dispel myths / stereotypes around races or religions
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Organise a skill-sharing day bringing together different generations of people in the community
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Hold a multi-cultural event with traditional food, costume and dance
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