Alison Cope has lived experience of losing her
son Josh when he was stabbed in 2013. Alison devotes her time to
campaigning for violence reduction, much of which involves
2–3-hour presentations to secondary school audiences across
the UK. Alison previously presented at the Greater Manchester Hope
Hack in Oct 2022, where her presentation was extremely engaging
across an audience of over 100 young people. Following this, our
commission with Alison in 2022-23 (which led her to speak at 12
schools across GM) was met with universal praise. Alison’s
message is one of awareness of the dangers of carrying a weapon,
but also considering the impact of violence on individuals, family
and friends, and looking out for signs amongst peer groups where
early intervention may be required. Alison’s presentation has
been endorsed by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.
It is important that the VRU considers additional support to
schools where the presentations take place in order that
disclosures or concerns can be addressed beyond the presentations,
so each school will be offered the services of GMP School
Engagement Officers and Youth Navigators. (This support will not
replace the existing statutory safeguarding arrangements in each
school). Feedback from sessions in 2023 and 2024 was incredibly
positive, hence the VRU wishes to maintain its working relationship
with Alison and recommission her in 2024/25.
The VRU’s Education Lead & Project & Policy Officer
are in the process of identifying the schools wishing to
participate and commit to longer term approaches to violence
prevention.
Decision type: Non-key
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Notice of proposed decision first published: 29/10/2024
Decision due: 23 Oct 2024 by Director for Safer and Stronger Communities
Contact: Lisa Lees Email: lisa.lees@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk.