Gangs – 16 plus
The police define gangs as a group of people who may commit crimes or hurt people. They might carry knives or other weapons and use them either to show off or to threaten people. They might try and get you involved with them and what they do – or threaten to hurt you if you don’t join them, or if you belong to another gang.
Why do people belong to gangs?
Some of the reasons young people give for being in a gang:
- a sense of belonging;
- they think it will make them safer; or
- they think they will make money.
Being part of a group is an important part of a young person’s life. But when a group friendship involves crime, violence is usually not far away.
What to do if you are threatened or assaulted by a gang
It can be extremely frightening to be attacked by a gang. As well as possibly being hurt physically, you can be very seriously affected emotionally. The important thing to remember is that it’s not your fault – you haven’t done anything wrong, and no-one has the right to hurt or threaten you.
It can be even more frightening or worrying if you feel like you are trying to cope with what has happened on your own. Lots of young people find that it helps if they can talk to someone.
You could:
- Tell an adult you trust. This could include a teacher or a family member.
- Think about reporting it to the police. If you think you are at immediate risk of getting hurt, call 999.
- Talk to us at Voice. We are here to help and support you and to help you find a safe and positive way forward.
I’m scared of gangs. What can I do?
Some people can feel intimidated and scared of gangs, especially if the gang is operating in their local area and involved in violence or crime. You might well feel worried about being threatened or attacked.
If you are scared of gang violence, there are people who can help and give you support.
- Speak to the local police. They will be aware of gang activity and will support and advise you.
- Talk to us at Voice. We are here to help and support you if you are scared of gang violence.
Isn’t it safer for me to join the gang?
You might feel that if you join a gang you’ll be safe and not picked upon, but often this is not true. Sometimes being in a gang puts you in danger from people who are in other gangs.
Children and young people may also think that being in a gang will give them a better life, but in fact it will put you at more risk of carrying out a crime and it may lead to getting involved in drugs.
I’m being pressured into joining a gang, what can I do?
It may be hard sometimes, but you don’t have to do anything that you don’t want to do. No one has the right to force you into doing something.
It can be really difficult for children and young people to escape joining a gang especially if it’s in your neighbourhood. Being in a gang isn’t a crime in itself but it can put you at much more risk of hurting someone else or being hurt yourself.
If your group of friends starts to get involved with gangs you should try to make new friends. It’s hard to leave behind your friends but there are lots of other people out there for you to make friends with, and lots of other activities you can get involved with that could be a lot safer. The most important thing is to keep yourself safe.
Talk to us at Voice if you are being pressured into joining a gang.
You can also access free advice and support from ex gangmembers at Gangsline by calling 0800 032 9538 or 07753 351 256.