Youth Violence Prevention Programme: Tough Topics

Youth violence is a pressing issue affecting schools and communities worldwide. Educators and youth workers need effective, engaging tools to address this challenge. Introducing Tough Topics – Youth Violence Prevention, a cutting-edge interactive educational programme designed for ages 11 and up.

Developed by Junior Smart OBE, an Expert in Youth Intervention, this boxed set of 20 Scenario Cards, 15 Principles Cards, 6 Prompt Cards and an Instruction and Guidance Manual is designed to explore complex issues through carefully crafted, age-appropriate situations and equip young people with the skills to make positive choices.

Why Tough Topics Stands Apart:

• Realistic Scenarios: Engage students with 20 true-to-life situations reflecting challenges they may encounter, such as bullying, peer pressure and gang involvement
• Interactive Discussions: Foster critical thinking and empathy through guided conversations.
• Empowerment Focus: Equip young people skills to make positive choices and become agents of change.
• Flexible Application: Suitable for classroom discussions, advisory sessions, after-school programmes and community initiatives.

Key Features:

1. Founding Principles: Start with 15 core concepts to build a shared understanding of non-violence and respect.
2. Scenario Cards: Explore complex issues through carefully crafted, age-appropriate situations.
3. Prompt Questions: Encourage deep reflection and problem-solving with thought-provoking queries.
4. Comprehensive Guide: Detailed facilitator instructions ensure meaningful, safe discussions.

Learning Outcomes - participants will gain:

• Increased awareness of youth violence causes and consequences
• Improved critical thinking and communication skills
• Enhanced empathy and understanding
• Knowledge of prevention strategies and warning signs
• Sense of empowerment to create positive change

Developed by an Expert in Youth Intervention

Tough Topics draws on Junior Smart’s extensive experience as a visionary youth intervention specialist and social entrepreneur. With close to 20 years in the field, Junior has:

• Extensive experience of working with hard-to-reach young people involved in violence, gangs and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)
• Consistently devised and implemented intervention strategies for young people and their families across the country
• Influenced national policy as a member of the UK Home Office Taskforce for Violence
• Received numerous accolades, including an OBE and an Honorary Doctorate in Education from Greenwich University.

Make a Lasting Impact

By investing in Tough Topics, you’re not just providing an engaging learning experience – you’re empowering the next generation to create a culture of peace, respect and non-violence in schools and communities.

Ready to transform the conversation around youth violence? Behind every case, every challenge, and every tough conversation is a young person with their own story, their own struggles, and their own potential.