We have been honored over the last few weeks to have a Retired Manchester Crown Court Judge, The Right Honorable Bernard Lever join us when delivering our GANG for LIFE? Project to children in Primary School and at a PRU. He has kindly given feedback on his thoughts on the Project.

"I am a retired Crown Court Judge who down the years had a lot of involvement with cases involving Gangs. I therefore had a special interest as well as I hope special knowledge of the subject. I was very impressed by this Charity’s work.

I have attended talks given to two age groups. Ten year old's and Fifteen year old's who have been excluded from ordinary schooling. A very well pitched talk is given to both these groups supported by informative slides to emphasise the points made.

The pitch is age appropriate for both groups by a reformed ex gangster who had served a total of 16 years in prison for two separate offences. He was impressive in the content and keeping the groups attentive and well behaved. This is no mean feat particularly with the older group who have been excluded from school.

He emphasises personal responsibility, the traps and grooming of recruiters to gangs, that telling responsible adults that they had been approached is not “grassing” and the danger of carrying knives, whether in a gang or personal context.

The group is effectively run by vetted volunteers and includes an enjoyable circuit training including a safe boxing training station which is popular. The circuit is well equipped with equipment. Plainly this is as a result of significant financial expenditure and generates a feel good experience among participants."

His Honour Bernard Lever

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Feedback received from St Matthews Primary School in Bolton in 2024

What did the students enjoy most about the Sports Session?

The boxing

 

What did the students enjoy most about the Educational Talk?

Finding out he could have been a professional footballer.

 

During the Educational Session, we discussed Knife Crime, County Lines Dealing, Prison and The Grooming Process, did the students learn anything new on these topics? If so, what?

The children learnt about county lines. They learnt about prison from Jason’s first hand experience.

 

Could you provide some quotes from students regarding our visit?

 

“I couldn’t believe Jason made the same mistake twice”

“Jason should have listened to his good role models at United”

“I loved the work out. I got so sweaty!”

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Feedback received after our visit to Peel Hall Primary School in Salford in 2024

What did the students enjoy most about the Sports Session?

Children said that they enjoyed it as it was fun and they liked doing something fun with their friends.

Other children said they liked doing exercise.

What did the students enjoy most about the educational talk?

Children were interested to know about how dangerous gangs can be.

During the Educational Session, we discussed Knife Crime, County Lines Dealing, Prison and The Grooming Process, did the students learn anything new on these topics? If so, what?

“We learnt what it was like in prison and how dangerous it can be.”

Could you provide some quotes from students regarding our visit?

“it was very interesting to hear about.”

“It was intriguing learning about gangs”

“It was very intimidating.” (Referring to the danger!)

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Feedback received after our visit to Lever Park School in Bolton in 2024

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Exceeded expectations, all information given seemed to really have a positive impact on the relevant children. 

 On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

Would recommend to others, all information was relevant and necessary to the age group of children; especially with things they see in the media.

 How well do you think our team engaged with the children? 

The children seemed to really engage well with the team, professionalism was maintained throughout and the children that took part seemed interested throughout. There seemed to be something for everyone.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The children seemed to really enjoy the physical side of the Programme, also seemed to really enjoy meeting people face to face who have been in these negative situations. 

 What did the children learn from our visit?

The children that took part learned a lot about violence and knife crime. All the children i spoke to after the prevent 2 protect activities where more understanding of why people shouldn't carry knifes or be involved in criminal activity, they also learnt about the consequences for negative actions.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

The delivery of the session was gripping and all the children that took part were engaged and soaked up the stories, information, and knowledge like a sponge. With the type of children we deal with here, this feels very important as they do find themselves in vulnerable positions. During break time and lunch this was the talk of the school, every pupil i spoke to came back to me with their own positive opinions on the prevent 2 protect. Our pupils learned some very valuable information from experienced people, and i believe this will go a long way for a lot of them. 

 Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

YES

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Feedback received from our visit to students at Arbour Academy in Salford in 2024
How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project?
      Previously visited our centre
Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?
       Met (because sat in session last time)
On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?
        10
How well do you think our team engaged with the children?
         Very well
What did the children enjoy most about our visit?
         Being able to ask questions about situations they could find  themselves in in their community and what might lead them  to get into trouble, possibly unintentionally
What did the children learn from our visit?
          How easy it could be to go down the wrong path. Reasons  for turning a life around and how that is possible to do. They 
          felt empathy and understood that even though someone  may do bad things at what point in their lives they are not 
          ultimately bad.
Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work?
          Our pupils gained insights into how someone their own age could make wrong choices in their life. They learnt what the consequences could be. But they were shown it was possible to turn your life around. They were fascinated hearing about  the circumstances of someone who turned to criminal activities could find themselves in. They asked a lot of probing   questions and this showed they were paying attention and considering difficult situations themselves or their peers   
          could potentially find themselves in and how they could negotiate these.
Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?
          Yes. Shame quite a few pupils missed out due to absence

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FEEDBACK AFTER OUR VISIT TO ST PAULS PRIMARY SCHOOL IN BOLTON IN 2023

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

Previous visits to school.

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Exceeded, the children got so much out of both sessions.

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

They were fantastic with the children, funny, patient and encouraging. They have a lovely manner with the children especially during the circuit training pushing and praising the children to ensure they got the most out of the session. The life story section was wonderful too as they allowed the children to ask questions and answered all questions in a respectful and informative manner.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The children absolutely loved the circuit training, they were literally buzzing! They loved the boxing parts and using the equipment that we don’t have in schools such as the weighted balls.

What did the children learn from our visit?

The importance of not following a crowd and that if you get those feelings that something isn’t right then you can talk to a trusted adult. They learnt a lot about stereotypes and how it can be easy to trust the wrong people and end up in a bad situation. I think it gave the children more of an understanding about how grooming works in a gang as a lot of the children were not aware of this previously.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

Year 5 had a fantastic morning with Prevent 2 protect. Starting with a challenging circuit training which allowed them to show their resilience and determination when faced with activities which they had not tried before. All the team were on hand with words of support and encouragement to push the children further and showed great patience with the children ensuring everyone knew how to use the equipment and all children were supported to try new things. My class absolutely loved this session they gave it everything they had, and it was great to see them pushing themselves out of their comfort zone especially with the boxing, I saw a new side to some of my class!

The next part of the morning we headed back to the classroom for an eye opening and inspiring talk from Jason about life in a gang. The children listened intently as Jason told his story and patiently answered any questions that the children had. He answered the children’s questions with insightful answers and ensured the children understood the dangers that they may face and exactly who they can talk to for support, reinforcing the importance of this. My class had a fantastic morning and left the session feeling more informed and confident as a result of our morning with prevent 2 protect. Thank you!

 

FEEDBACK FROM ST JAMES PRIMARY SCHOOL IN FARNWORTH AFTER OUR VISIT IN 2023

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project
We have taken part in for the last two years.

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?
It is always a really great session – the children love the physical element to the session and the classroom based session is very informative and important for our children.

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?
10

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?
Really well – every child enjoyed the sessions and listened/joined in well which is down to your team.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?
They love the boxing, it is always a hit! The children also enjoyed being able to ask lots of questions during the classroom based session.
What did the children learn from our visit?
The serious consequences of joining a gang and what this may look like if they were being encouraged to join a gang. 

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

A very fun and informative session that always really engages our children. The project teaches the children some really important messages and equips them with the skills that will hopefully prevent them from joining gangs. The children love the physical element of the session, particularly the boxing. They really enjoy being able to ask lots of questions during the in class session as this is something we rarely discuss in school. As a school, we feel this is always a very beneficial project for our children to be involved in and have loved working with the team over the last few years. 

 

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?
Absolutely! 

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FEEDBACK FROM OUR VISIT TO MOSSFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL IN SALFORD AFTER OUR VISIT IN 2023

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project
Mossfield Primary has had the Gang for Life project in school for a few years now as we feel
That this is prevalent within the area and children should be aware
Of the dangers from a young age and in preparation to moving to high school where they will may encounter
this.
Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?
Expectations exceeded, new to this year group this year, I was unsure what to expect
But the children loved it, very engaging.
On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?
9/10
How well do you think our team engaged with the children?
Very Well, they got involved, talked with them and answered any questions.  

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?
The children enjoyed the Circuit which was motivating

What did the children learn from our visit?
How easy it is to get caught up into a gang and how to prevent this happening.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

Firstly, the children had a classroom based session where the lead speaker talked about his own experiences
The effects it has had on his life and how to prevent this happening to you. 
This followed by a fitness circuit to lighten the mood, which the children loved.

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?
yes
 

FEEDBACK FROM STAFF AT THE CANTERBURY CENTRE PRU AT SALFORD AFTER OUR VISIT IN  2023

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

Deputy Head Teacher

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Exceeded

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10 +

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

        The team engaged really well.

 What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The honesty and listening to real life experiences.

Being able to ask questions and getting honest no frills answers

   What did the children learn from our visit?

Choose your friends wisely.

Nothing in life is free, people always want something in return.

The age of criminal responsibility, how easy it is to mix with the wrong people and the warning signs.

Don’t be afraid to say NO.

Choose the life, lose your life.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

Engaging, honest life experience of how easy it is to become a member of a gang without realising it.

How vulnerable young people are and how gangs take advantage of that.

Making the wrong decision has huge consequence’s on the whole family.

This work should be part of life skills lesson’s in the classroom to all ages.

The best safeguarding lesson a school could provide, especially to vulnerable pupil’s.

 Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

As a member of staff I feel that the work you do is of vital importance, pupil’s are joining us at various times, so I feel it would be good to have a follow-up visit

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FEEDBACK FROM STAFF AT WARDLEY CE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN SALFORD AFTER OUR VISIT IN FEBRUARY 2023

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

An email to school

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Exceeded expectations – not only were the children clearly exposed to the dangers of gangs, speaking to someone who has actually experienced it gave the whole experience a real truth.

The physical workshop was fast pace and fun. The children absolutely loved every minute.

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

Extremely well. The children were fully engaged throughout the whole morning.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

All of it!

They absolutely loved the physical workshop and they found the information about gangs really interesting. They could all tell me something that they had learned from the session and said that it will make them more aware of the dangers of gangs in the future.

 What did the children learn from our visit?

This is what our children said:

That you can be any age to be involved in a gang. Once you’re in a gang, it is very difficult to get out. The gang leaders pretend to care in the beginning but then they don’t care if you get caught. That being in a gang can lead to many problems including being beaten up or even killed. People in gangs often end up in prison. It is difficult to get a job if you’ve been in a gang because people won’t trust you.

 Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

The Prevent 2 Protect workshop is an ideal introduction into gang related crime for children. It clearly sets out what gangs are and how easily it can be to be drawn into one. They make it clear how quickly situations can escalate and how difficult it can be to get yourself out of a gang once you’re in one. The whole team are professional and engaging. The children learnt so much from this workshop; it was wonderful.

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

Yes please 

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Feedback from staff at The Clifton Centre PRU in Salford after our visit in October 2022

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

Worked with them previously.

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Having worked with them previously they met the high expectations they set for themselves.

 On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

The team engaged excellently with our young people as per usual.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The sport as well as hearing the life story account.

What did the children learn from our visit? 

The young people learnt about the structure of a gang, the realities of life behind bars and the difficulties that come with that.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

The staff team were brilliant again and engaged the young people of our provision which isn’t an easy task. Both sessions were interesting for the young people and the authentic and passionate staff truly connected with the young people. The staff instantly began building relationships with the young people which also helped the day run smoothly. The sport was a good hook and way of building relationships which followed by the classroom session ended up being an amazing session.

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

Of course.

 

FEEDBACK FROM STAFF AT QUEENSBRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN BOLTON AFTER OUR VISIT IN SEPTEMBER 2022

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

Had previously visited the school last year

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Yes very informative & enjoyable

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

Excellent engagement, staff spoke from first-hand experience and also listened and engaged well with stories the children wanted to tell.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The children really enjoyed the boxing and fitness session but also listening to the stories as they were true stories.

 What did the children learn from our visit?

The children learnt about staying safe, about how different their life can be if they take the wrong path and make the wrong choices and end up involved in criminal activities.  They learnt how one small thing can lead to bigger things, how being vulnerable can be seen as an easy target for grooming and that they should always have a trusted adult to talk to and to help them stay safe.

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

 A really informative and enjoyable morning had by the children in Y6 who learnt an important message about keeping themselves safe and the dangers & consequences of becoming involved with criminal activities, and about directing their time and energy into positive activities such as boxing, fitness and other sports within the community.

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

 Yes, thanks again for your visit

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Feedback received from staff at Moorside Primary School in Salford after our visit in September 2022

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

Visited school in previous years

 Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

Met

 On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

10

 How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

The team were fantastic and the children were all really engaged throughout. They built a fantastic relationship with our children in a short space of time and were considerate (and adapting!) to the additional needs of some of our pupils.

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

The physical activities in the break out space.

 What did the children learn from our visit?

Gangs, drugs and how to not become involved.

 Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

This was a fantastic experience for our pupils, which provided a strong, clear message about the dangers of gangs and drugs. All of our children really enjoyed the sessions and the team were friendly and so professional in the way that they delivered the sessions- ensuring that our children had the best experience possible! We will absolutely be using them again next year. 

 Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

Yes

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Feedback from a staff member after our visit to Bolton Impact Trust PRU in Bolton on 28th June 2022

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project

I heard about the project via our safe guarding lead on site. Who passed Prevents information on to myself 

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

As a school working with Young people who are at risk of criminality we were all blown away by the effort the team went to, to send a message that is so needed at our school. My expectations where exceeded, from start to finish. From the communication that took place before hand, to the set up on the morning, to the running of the morning. Very impressed with their ability to build rapport very fast with such empathy towards our students. Thank you  

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?
10- Very likely 

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?
Extremely well, our students have faced such hardship in their lives, and the team where able to engage them very quickly, which can be difficult in our school setting. They were able to get down to a level the students understood and respected each of our students stories, showing empathy and understanding, listening to any questions they had. Which in turn helped both the project and our students get the very best out of the project. Our students are seen as hard to reach but were engaged fully for the full morning 

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?
The staffs approach to them, and the material that was delivered in both the sport offer and workshop offer 

What did the children learn from our visit?
They learnt lots of important messages on the morning. However the two most important messages that stood out the most were
1.    Consequences can last a life time- very impactful 
2.    That people make mistakes but can change their lives around if they want it enough 

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

I just wanted to send this email in relation to the programme that was delivered to our students today, at Youth Challenge, Bolton Impact Trust in Bolton. 

From start to finish the team offering the programme have been amazing. The communication from the start has been excellent, and continued support and offering of different dates to accommodate where amazing 

On the day of the programme, we were greeted by 5 amazing individuals, who blew us all away with their knowledge and skills. Their ability to instantly build rapport with our students literally was something we very seldom get to see, this was just the start of an amazing delivery. All the team demonstrated empathy, attentive listening skills and much more, which is again being a Pupil Referral Unit, something our students need to engage. The team delivering the programme were excellent in delivering such an important message to our students, a message that we try to get across daily with the work we do, however this project and its materials made that more impactful. The realness and power behind Jason’s story, I am sure will have hit home to many who got involved in the project, and I myself would like to take the opportunity to say, thank you for sharing such a sensitive story with us at Youth Challenge. What a brilliant and life changing thing you’re doing now, so well done. 

The programme itself is outstanding and is extremely relevant and more importantly a very good way to engage young people, with the offer of sport and workshops. 

I am impressed by the whole process, the team, the skill set, the programme itself, the way in which the facilitators delivered and the way in which they came into our school, with smiles, excellent communication skills, and a very approachable and effective way of working. They left leaving with no questions unanswered. 

This programme will no doubt have changed some of our students' thought processes and changed some of the staff's way of working. 

I cannot thank them enough and I hope they can return very soon. 

What an amazing day
Nicola 

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?
Most definitely 

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Feedback from a staff member at St Thomas C of E Primary School in Halliwell, Bolton after our delivery of the Gang for Life? Workshops in June 2022

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT PREVENT 2 PROECT AND THE GANG FOR LIFE PROJECT?

From our Headteacher

WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS MET, UNMET, EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS?

Fully Met

ON A SCALE OF 0 -10, HOW LIKELY WOULD YOU BE TO RECOMMEND US TO ANOTHER EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS?

10

HOW WELL DO YOU THINK OUR TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?

All engaged brilliantly - Gave plenty of time for questions and answers, all very encouraging.

WHAT DID THE CHILDREN ENJOY ABOUT OUR VISIT?

Jason's own story - My Life in a Gang

The Boxing

WHAT DID THE CHILDREN LEARN FROM OUR VISIT?

The reasons why it is important NOT to joins a gang and the consequences of those that do.

COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS 

A fantastic workshop delivered that really got the children thinking about their personal choices and possible consequences.  They now know so much more about gangs, county lines, and where to get help if needed.

WOULD YOU BE HAPPY FOR US TO RETURN ON A FOLLOW UP VISIT?

YES.  A brilliant morning that impacted all children and adults.

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Feedback from a staff member at Beacon Primary School in Horwich, Bolton after we delivered our #GangForLife Project to their Year 5 & Year 6 students on 14th June 2022.
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT PREVENT 2 PROECT AND THE GANG FOR LIFE PROJECT?
Through St Paul's Primary School (Bolton)
WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS MET, UNMET, EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS?
Exceeded.
ON A SCALE OF 0 -10, HOW LIKELY WOULD YOU BE TO RECOMMEND US TO ANOTHER EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS?
Absolutely recommend you
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK OUR TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?
10/10
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN ENJOY ABOUT OUR VISIT?
Your honesty and real life experiences
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN LEARN FROM OUR VISIT?
To be aware of the risks of gangs, and awareness that anyone can be a target
COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS 
Found the sessions interesting and informative, thank you for helping our children see that no one is immune from the risks of gangs.
WOULD YOU BE HAPPY FOR US TO RETURN ON A FOLLOW UP VISIT?
Yes - We hope you will

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A second feedback form from a staff member at Beacon Primary School in Horwich, Bolton after we delivered our #GangForLife Project to YR5 & YR6 students on 14th June 2022 (great day)

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT PREVENT 2 PROECT AND THE GANG FOR LIFE PROJECT?
Through St Paul's Primary School (Bolton)
WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS MET, UNMET, EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS?
Met
ON A SCALE OF 0 -10, HOW LIKELY WOULD YOU BE TO RECOMMEND US TO ANOTHER EDUCATIONAL SETTING?
10/10
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK OUR TEAM EBGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?
10/10 from everyone
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN ENJOY EBOUT OUR VISIT?
Punching, Kicking, The Boxing!
Listening to Jason's story
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN LEARN FROM OUR VISIT?
Consequences of being in a gang, signs to look out for, and staying fit.
COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS 
Really insightful session, interesting, honest and engaging.
WOULD YOU BE HAPPY FOR US TO RETURN ON A FOLLOW UP VISIT?
Yes - Thank you - Loved it! 🙂
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Feedback received from the Year 5 Teacher at St Paul's Primary School in Astley Bridge, Bolton after our visit on 9th June 2022
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT PROVENT 2 PROTECT AND OUR GANG FOR LIFE PROJECT?
Through twitter and other workshops you provided to year 6.
WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS MET, UNMET, EXCEED EXPECTATIONS?
Expectations were definitely met.
ON A SCALE OF 0 - 10, HOW LIKELY WOULD YOU BE TO RECOMMEND US TO OTHER EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS?
10
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK OUR TEAM EGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?
Fantastic.  Great approach to a delicate subject and how you brought a true story into the workshop was admirable.
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN ENJOY MOST ABOUT OUR VISIT?
Both the physical aspect and listening to personal stories.
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN LEARN FORM OUR VISIT?
Bad Gangs, how to recognise Gang Members and what to do.
COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS?
A fantastic, age appropriate workshop that appealed to both children and adults.  Your approach and manner with all children was fantastic.  You should be incredibly proud of what you do!
WOULD YOU BE HAPPY FOR OUR TEAM TO RETURN?
Most definitely.  Thank You! - Yr 5 Class Teacher

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Feedback from a member of staff at Wardley CE Primary School in #Salford after our on 7th June 2022
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT PREVENT 2 PROTECT AND OUR GANG FOR LIEF PROJECT?
An email was sent to the school.
WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS MET, UNMET OR EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS?
They Exceeded Expectations
ON A SCALE OF ZERO TO TEN, HOW LIKELY WOULD YOU BE TO RECOMMEND US TO OTHER EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS?
10
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK OUR TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN? 
Very well, really engaging and age appropriate.
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN ENJOY MOST ABOUT OUR VISIT?
They loved the Boxing activities and all the sporting tasks.  They found the discussion about Gangs extremely interesting.
WHAT DID THE CHILDREN LEARN FROM OUR VISIT?
Peer Pressure, what "grooming" is, the consequences of being part of a Gang.
COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS?
The Prevent 2 Protect team were fantastic!  The physical activities were exciting and engaging; they really worked the children hard!  When discussing Gangs, the children learned lots about the grooming process and most importantly how to prevent becoming a Gang member.
WOULD YOU BE HAPPY FOR US TO RETURN ON A FOLLOW UP VISIT?
Yes please!  We would love for you to return for future year groups too!

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Feedback from The Valley Primary School in #Bolton after delivering our #GangForLife Project to their YR6 Students earlier in 2022
How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project?  
"Arranged through Jackie Leonard Year 6 teacher, (separate feedback form)"
On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?
"10"
How well do you think our team engaged with the children?
"The team engaged well with the children. All the children enjoyed the gym session.
The session about gangs was interesting to the children and questions were answered clearly and suitably pitched to the level of Year 6 children."
What did the children enjoy most about our visit?
"The gym session was very enjoyable, as it was different activities eg. Boxing, which they are normally able to do in school."
What did the children learn from our visit?
"The children learned why younger children might be encouraged to join gangs.  They understood that the gang culture was not what they might think, in that they are not there to support each other in the gang and others can easily take their place.
They learned about the consequences of joining a gang, eg. death, prison, affecting future life opportunities."
Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.
"The children were given the opportunity to take part in a circuit of boxing gym activities. All the children clearly enjoyed this session, particularly those who had skills which they are not usually able to demonstrate in school.
The session giving a first hand account of the reality of life in a gang was useful, as it explained how easily children can slip into this culture and the difficulty of getting out of it.
It was interesting to hear this from the perspective of someone who had been drawn into gang life and learn how this had affected his life. The question and answer session was honest but pitched at a level which was suitable for year 6 children to hear about and understand."
Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?
"Yes"

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FEEDBACK FROM STAFF AT THE CLIFTON CENTRE PRU IN SALFORD after our delivery in 2022

How did you hear about Prevent 2 Protect, and our GANG for LIFE? Project?

Worked with the provision previously 

Were your expectations met, unmet, exceeded expectations?

The expectations were exceeded. 

On a scale of zero (unlikely) to ten (very likely), how likely would you be to recommend us to other Educational Settings?

Ten 

How well do you think our team engaged with the children?

The team engaged very well with the young people and made the sessions accessible for all of our young people. The team also managed challenging behaviour very well and maintained the interest of the young people throughout. 

What did the children enjoy most about our visit?

They enjoyed the sports as well as the personal story of the ex-gang member. 

What did the children learn from our visit?

Just how easy it was to fall into a gang and its implications on a person’s life. 

Could you describe your experience in a few paragraphs, so we can share them on our website and social media sites to promote our work.

The team was professional throughout and the mix of sporting activities as well as education worked really well for our cohort. The personal story of the ex-gang member was hard hitting for some of the young people as it made them reflect on their current situations and their families. The information was also helpful as many of the young people didn’t realise the severity of life in prison so for some was a real eye opener. The cost of everyday items in prison came as a real shock for the young people. Through conversations with young people following the session, a couple were adamant they would never go to prison as a result of the session.

Would you be happy for our team to return on a follow-up visit?

Yes

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FEEDBACK FROM YEAR 6 STUDENTS AT MOORSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN SWINTON, MANCHESTER

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Dear GANG for LIFE? Team, My name is Teishaan and I am a Year 6 student at Moorside Primary School in Swinton.  I am writing to you following your recent visit to our School.

I really enjoyed the day, but my favourite part was how Jason told his story and that he was so passionate.  Furthermore I really loved the skipping.  Yours Truly, Teishan

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Dear GANG for LIFE? team.  My name is Scarlett and I am from Year 6 class at Moorside Primary School in Swinton.

I want to thank you for your time and the activities you gave us, it was fun!  The education was my favourite part as i felt that Jason was brave to tell us his story, but I also loved the sports and taking part in punching and kicking the bags.

Thank you so much for a marvellous day.  Your Sincerely, from Scarlett

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Dear GANG for LIFE? Team,  My name is Daisy and I am a Year 6 student at Moorside Primary School in Swinton.  I am writing to you about your visit to our school. 

I really enjoyed the Boxing parts of the sport, and listening to Jason's story and making me aware of the dangers.  My favourite part was the sports and i loved the partner work on the different stations but the PowerPoint was great.  I looked up to Jason for being brave and teaching me things i didn't know, assuring me i will be safe and sensible.  Thanks for taking you time coming to our school.

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FEEDBACK FROM 2 STAFF MEMBERS AT ROLLS CRESCENT PRIMARY SCHOOL IN HULME after our visit in 2022, it is feedback like this that we feel makes all the work worthwhile, to leave such a lasting impression is what this project is all about 

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DID YOU AS STAFF ENGAGE WITH OUR WORKERS?
Yes
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE PREVENT 2 PROTECT TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?
Very well.  The children were all engaged throughout the morning (no easy task!)
DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING COME ACROSS?
Yes
DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE DANGERS OF GANG LIFE COME ACROSS?
Definitely.  The children listened intently, asked relevant questions - and were still talking about the sessions/asking questions later.
DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THE SESSIONS, BOTH EDUCATIONAL AND SPORTS?
No
DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK FOR OUR TEAM?
A big thank you!
WOULD YOU LIKE FOR US TO RETURN?
Yes
IN A SHORT PARAGRAPH PLEASE CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE GANG FOR LIFE? SESSIONS
I have worked in Hulme for more than 20 years and know of several cases where our pupils have become involved  with gangs, often with serious consequences.  I was only in class for Jason's session - but his honesty, his directness in answering questions etc. brought home his experiences like no other similar sessions I have attended.  I am sure it will have made a lasting impression on the children.  It might well have saved someone from a very unhappy future

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DID YOU AS STAFF ENGAGE WITH OUR WORKERS?

Yes, we joined in the physical activities and supported during the classroom session

HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE PREVENT 2 PROTECT TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?

Very well. Class 6B were a captive audience and all way the team engaged with the students was very positive.

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING COME ACROSS?

Yes, they understood that emphasis was being put on exercise and healthy lifestyle choices.

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE DANGERS OF GANG LIFE COME ACROSS?

Definitely.

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THE SESSIONS? BOTH EDUCATIONAL AND SPORTS

Some of the slides and video clips used quite advanced language and vocabulary, which some of our new to English and SEND students would have found difficult to understand. These could be explained more effectively using more child-friendly language.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK FOR OUR TEAM?

Thank you for sharing your personal stories so bravely. They were very touching.

WOULD YOU LIKE FOR US TO RETURN?

Yes please. This work is very important, particularly for children in our community and we need to be talking to them about the dangers while they are still young and receptive!

IN A SHORT PARAGRAPH PLEASE CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE GANG FOR LIFE? SESSIONS

The whole morning was well organized from start to finish. The use of a carousel of physical activities (circuit training) really engaged the children and stressed the importance of maintaining good health in a fun, child-friendly way. Following this, the pupils were more receptive to the classroom activities. Their participation was encouraged and their questions and contributions were handled positively and sensitively. Hearing about the first-hand experiences of the team was particularly powerful and really brought the reality of gangs and knife crime home. The use of fun, physical activities complemented the more serious classroom activities really well.

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FEEDBACK FROM STAFF AT THE KASSIA ACADEMY IN PADGATE, WARRINGTON AFTER DELIVERING OUR PROJECT IN 2022

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DID YOU AS STAFF ENGAGE WITH OUR WORKERS?

Yes , staff were efficient , hardworking and had excellent subject knowledge which was well planned and prepared.

HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE PREVENT 2 PROTECT TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?

Staff engaged our young people and immediately established positive and purposeful relationships both in the talk and with the sport element.

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING COME ACROSS?

Yes. The pupils enjoyed this session and were motivated as a result of it.

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE DANGERS OF GANG LIFE COME ACROSS?

Yes , strong subject knowledge , good visuals and strong impact , pupils wanted to discuss this further and would benefit from further work

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THE SESSIONS? BOTH EDUCATIONAL AND SPORTS

Increased use of offenders as the talk had a tremendous impact

DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK FOR OUR TEAM?

Thank you so much

WOULD YOU LIKE FOR US TO RETURN?

Yes please

IN A SHORT PARAGRAPH PLEASE CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE GANG FOR LIFE? SESSIONS

Informative and realistic talk from people who have experienced gang life from different perspectives. This had tremendous impact upon our young people for whom some are on the cusp of real life risky situations. These sessions could be life savers.

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FEEDBACK RECEIVED FROM STAFF AT MOORSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL AFTER OUR TEAM WORKED WITH 90 OF THEIR YEAR 6 STUDENTS

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The whole morning was brilliant from start to finish. The sessions were engaging and informative and pitched appropriately for the age group. The children learnt life-long skills and how to stay safe as they are growing up. The children had a fantastic day and were talking about it for weeks after! We will definitely have them back to school!

Many thanks, Catherine Cowperthwaite.

Really useful workshop, the classroom element was very informative and the children loved getting the chance to talk someone who had real life experience. Outdoor activities were exciting for the children with a good use of equipment, links to take part in those sports may be useful to pass on. 

Thanks, Paul Kay

  Gang 4 life is an engaging, informative and beneficial workshop. My Year 6 class, thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the morning. Each activity was inclusive and provided children with life skills along with a  truthful reality of the consequences of joining a gang. I felt that this morning was extremely valuable and will be a memorable experience for all children and adults! Lauren Atherton

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FEEDBACK RECEIVED FROM ANDREW PARK, CENTRE CO-ORDINATOR AT FIELDEN PARK LEARNING CENTRE IN WEST DIDSBURY

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DID YOU AS STAFF ENGAGE WITH OUR WORKERS? 

Yes

HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE PREVENT 2 PROTECT TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?

Very well, Prevent used real life examples so the group could relate to them.

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING COME ACROSS?

Yes

DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE DANGERS OF GANG LIFE COME ACROSS?

Yes

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THE SESSIONS? BOTH EDUCATIONAL AND SPORTS

If possible to run more than one session with more real life examples and maybe a longer separate sports session.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK FOR OUR TEAM?

Students really enjoyed the session, thank you.

WOULD YOU LIKE FOR US TO RETURN?

Yes

IN A SHORT PARAGRAPH PLEASE CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE GANG FOR LIFE? SESSIONS

Very good session, opportunity for students to talk about their experiences in a forum with people who understand. The sports session could have been longer and as we have been in lockdown it was nice to see the students doing some physical activities.

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FEEDBACK RECEIVED FROM NEWTON HEATH YOUTH PROJECT IN GREATER MANCHESTER

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DID YOU AS STAFF ENGAGE WITH OUR WORKERS?
Yes session where supervised throughout
HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE PREVENT 2 PROTECT TEAM ENGAGED WITH THE CHILDREN?
All Prevent 2 protect team engaged well with our students
DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING COME ACROSS?
Yes I feel that the young people got the message and continued discussing the activities
DID THE MESSAGE ABOUT THE DANGERS OF GANG LIFE COME ACROSS?
I feel the students gained a better understanding of how easy it is to become involved in gang life and it helped them to recognized what a constitutes a gang
DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THE SESSIONS? BOTH EDUCATIONAL AND SPORTS
Wellbeing activates that would encourage more engagement from the girls facials etc. Also more education on how girls become involved in gang life and the roles they play within that
DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK FOR OUR TEAM?

No
WOULD YOU LIKE FOR US TO RETURN?
Yes think we would like some follow up work either one to one or smaller groups
IN A SHORT PARAGRAPH PLEASE CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE GANG FOR LIFE? SESSIONS
All round good session’s staff were really engaging and interacted well with students and staff. The session were informative and interesting and raised student’s awareness of gang life and how engaging in sports is a positive thing not only for health purposes but for the purpose of focusing on sport as a distraction from getting involved in gangs.

Angela Taylor (Manchester Secondary PRU - Newton Heath Learning)

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Feedback from staff at The Clifton Centre PRU in Salford

‘The agency staff were fantastic! They really engaged positively with our students and the message 'Say No to Gangs and No to Drugs' was powerful and had an impact on the students who were part of the sessions’.  

Matt Wilson (The Clifton Centre PRU)

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Feedback from a staff member from St James Primary School in Farnworth, Bolton

"Our Year 6 children benefited enormously from the present 2 protect session that was delivered in school. From start to finish, the children were fully engaged and interactive. The factual presentation was age appropriate and informative without being too much for the children at this age. There was a good balance between giving facts and eliciting responses (which were dealt with sensitively). The practical session in the hall was a big hit with all the children - many of which challenged themselves more than they would usually. 
Use prevent 2 protect again - a resounding yes!"

Ben McKean (St James Primary School, Farnworth)

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Feedback from the staff at Brighter Futures in Salford

To everyone at Prevent2Protect,

At Brighter Futures we have groups of students from various authorities who are here to build on social development and life skills, we have a relaxed policy where every child matters and we look at individual plans of progression and self-awareness. You came in on Thursday 8th October and ran sessions with our learners covering cookery from scratch and sport, fitness and well-being.

The learners were engaged from the start and thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and we felt it was beneficial and successful, we are looking forward to future engagement as the staff also believe the enthusiasm shown by yourselves was a massive contribution to the learners progression plans.

Students and staff discussed the sessions and agreed the sessions were:

· Well planned out · Well presented · Tutors related well with learners · Appropriate language at a level easily understood

· Exercise was targeted at learners’ levels and adapted accordingly

Overall, it was a pleasure having you in to our centre and we look forward to doing so again in the future. Regards.

Neil Smith (Manager, Brighter Futures)

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"The Prevent 2 Protect team came into Broadwalk to run a workshop about gangs and crime.  They worked with pupils to give them some knowledge about County Lines and Jason, who had previously been in prison because of gang crime, talked about his experience.  This session was followed by a boxing circuit class, to show how good exercise can be for your mental health and having a positive attitude.  This session was a fantastic experience for our pupils and they learnt a great deal. Thank you to everyone at Prevent 2 Protect."
Lisa Prior (PSHE Teacher, New Broadwalk PRU)

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Feedback from our workshops ran on the 20th November 2020

Thank you for the sessions you ran today, they were really enjoyed by all the learners who participated.

The cookery lesson went well (all the pizza was eaten, and more was requested) some of the learners have already put requests in to make their favourite foods when you return.

The learners that took part in the fitness session all agreed it was fun and really pushed them, when asked how it went some responses were: "its sick" CB, "its good" AW, "when are they back" MF - all were positive by everyone that took part.

We found your staff to be engaging with the learners, able to communicate at a level that was easily understood, informative and they kept the groups under control. I look forward to working with yourselves in the future.

Neil Smith (Manager, Brighter Futures)

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To everyone at Prevent2Protect,

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At Brighter Futures we have groups of students from various authorities who are here to build on social development and life skills, we have a relaxed policy where every child matters and we look at individual plans of progression and self-awareness.

You came in on Thursday 8th October and ran sessions with our learners covering cookery from scratch and sport, fitness and well-being. On popular demand you also visited again on the 16th November! This was again cooking and fitness with a different group of learners. The learners thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and we felt it was beneficial and successful, we are looking forward to future engagement as the staff also believe the enthusiasm shown by yourselves was a massive contribution to the learners progression plans. The students will be doing an evaluation sheet at some point over the nest few weeks so you will be given one for each. We will add this document into the students reviews and reports.

 

Students and staff discussed the sessions and agreed the sessions were: • Well presented great sessions and varied • Tutors related well with learners • Appropriate language at a level easily understood • Exercise was targeted at learners’ levels and adapted accordingly. Once again having you in to our centre was a valued session, we look forward to doing so again in the future.

Neil Smith (Manager, Brighter Futures) & Jane Barnes (APQA support)

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Feedback from the Staff at Manor Road City Learning Centre after our visits there over the last couple of weeks (photos to follow). Feedback like this is why Prevent 2 Protect are proud of the work being done and the results we are achieving.

"The programme was a great way to raise awareness about Gang issues especially for our students and the vulnerability that they may face at this young age.
The presentation was clear and informative and the students were engaged in asking questions.
The "real" example given of Gangs and Imprisonment highlighted the real dangers of Gang experience by a member of your team, it also shown that you can achieve a positive outcome if you wish.
On behalf of Manor Road Staff, we would like to thank you for your great effort and interest in our students.
THANK YOU"

"I thought the presentation and the subject matter discussed was excellent in every way. The children were largely engaged and participated in the discussion.
In summary, a worthwhile, informative and educationally beneficial exercise.
THANK YOU"

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