Health
We recognise that health inequalities, poor environments, lack of provision for neurodiverse conditions and addiction can be at the root of serious violence.
The Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership has taken a pioneering look at some of these issues with the support of expert organisations.
We work closely with public health professionals, including doctors, nurses, local authorities, and mental health counsellors to get to the root of issues that cause violence.
Led by our Health Lead, Trauma Consultant Nikhil Misra, our Healthcare Professionals Network brings together clinicians, NHS decision-makers, police, community groups and other violence reduction units to discuss the role they could play in supporting victims of violence, intervening early during the patient’s journey, and providing crucial links that can support that individual and their family and break the cycle of violence.
Find out more about how we take a Public Health Approach to tackling serious violence
KnifeSavers
We are proud to support the work of pioneering local not-for-profit.
Created by trauma surgeon and our Health Lead, Nikhil Misra, KnifeSavers empowers people, especially young people to deal with bleeding caused by knife injuries through Bleed Control Kits, an education programme, and a step-by-step app.
Neurodiversity
We have been working with The Brain Charity and others, to measure the impact of neurodiverse conditions on the Criminal Justice System and examine how better understanding could increase the support for those with neurodiverse needs and help to prevent reoffending.
As a result this research Another Sign – Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice System, the MVRP commissioned the Brain Charity to deliver training for staff working in the Criminal Justice System and look to take forward the other recommendations detailed in their report.
Gambling Harms
We recognise the role that issues with gambling can lead to debt, family breakdown and mental health issues, which can act as a trigger for violence.
Working with Beacon Counselling Trust, we hosted one of the first events in the region to increase understanding of this issue which in turn informed our campaign to provide advice for those experiencing gambling harms and help them to access support and guidance.
In May 2024, we supported a further conference was held focused on taking a whole family approach to gambling related harms, held in partnership wiht NHS Primary Care Gambling Service (PCGS), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), Forward Trust and Leeds Trinity University presents:
The event, supported by a wide range of professionals, academics and Lived Experience speakers, explored current research, practice applications, insight and current developments and initiatives in addressing gambling harms across our communities.
Trauma Informed Training
We run trauma informed training focused on supporting public sector organisations to understand how psychological trauma can impact individuals and ensure they consider the implications for their services.
Trauma-informed practice is essential to building safer, healthier communities. By investing in training and embedding trauma awareness across systems, we’re not just improving services – we’re changing lives.
