| Summary: | This research is an evaluation of an initiative dealing with gang and youth related violence in an inner London borough. Gangs have received increased attention in recent years in England and Wales, both in the media and in the political debate. The Gangs Unit evaluated is of one of the first co-located multi-agency teams in England and Wales specifically put together to deal with these issues. The research was planned around the principles of realistic evaluation; the research attempted to find what, if anything, was it about working in this way that contributed to the reduction. By interviewing staff members and as a small sample of identified gang members and their families who the unit is supporting, benefits and challenges were identified in working in this manner. The challenges include lack of appropriate education, training and employment (ETE) opportunities indicating how the Gangs Unit works in a context that impacts its ability to meet some of the identified aims. A number of benefits were also identified including co-location and improved information sharing, which have contributed to the success of the model for professionals. Very little evidence was found regarding how the identified gang members can be supported in engaging in positive activities.
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