Building Safer Futures

As part of Exploitation Week, Blackburn with Darwen Family Help Engage Team brought together agencies from across the borough to shine a spotlight on key issues facing young people today.

Students were supported to learn who they can go to and how they can access support, and the services available to help.

Building Safer Futures was hosted by Darwen Vale High School and Witton Park Academy, with approximately 1350 students across all year groups, accessing the event.

Councillor Julie Gunn, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and executive lead for Children and Education said:

“I think it’s important that young people recognise the signs of exploitation, but also to recognise that there’s support available and having all of our partners and the different organisations here today, alongside the council is a great resource.

This way young people know where to turn to, should they suspect that they might be being manipulated, or their friends might be. And likewise, the families, too, so hopefully they’ll go home, talk to their families and carers about what’s been shown to them today.”

The multi‑agency event brought together partners from Community Safety, Ivison Trust, Safer Neighbourhoods Police Teams, the Youth Justice Service, Early Break, BwD Champions, ADHD Northwest, re-Align Futures and the 180 Project.

Together, they supported pupils aged 11–16 to explore topics such as substance and alcohol use, neurodiversity, smoking, crime and anti-social behaviour, mental and emotional health, and child exploitation.

Through interactive activities, real-life discussions, and specialist input from all partner agencies, the initiative encouraged open and honest, age-appropriate conversations that helped them to understand risks, recognise unsafe situations, and feel confident seeking support when they need it.