Powerful Testimony Drives Focus on Anti-Social Behaviour and Serious Violence

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw brought together partners from Lancashire Constabulary, his Violence Reduction Network, local councils, and housing providers to drive the focus on tackling ASB and Serious Violence in the county.

Attendees of the event in Blackburn heard powerful testimony from Gary Daulby, whose son, Matthew, was only 19 years old when his life was cut short after he was stabbed following a night out with friends. Sadly, Matthew died from his injuries.

Through the Matthew Daulby Foundation, Gary is now working tirelessly to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime using immersive technology.

Charlie Hamilton Kay from ASB Help also shared impactful insights, highlighting how ASB can take a huge toll on individuals and their feelings of safety.

Partners shared best practice, highlighting successful and innovative ways of working such as the use of civil powers, education, investment in new fleet and targeted operational activity with the aim of overcoming challenges and closing gaps in the fight against ASB and serious violence in Lancashire.

Commissioner Grunshaw said: “Anti-social behaviour and serious violence have far-reaching consequences. They don’t just affect individuals and their families but can impact entire neighbourhoods and communities.

“Bringing partners together is so important to ensure that we are working together, using the resources we have wisely and learning from each other.

“Gary Daulby, through the work of the Matthew Daulby Foundation, is bringing into focus exactly why this work is so important. Violent crime affects real people, real families and real communities and leaves a lasting impact.

“I will continue to work closely with Lancashire Constabulary and our partners across Lancashire to ensure a continued and joined-up focus on tackling ASB and violent crime through strong leadership and tough scrutiny.”

Gary Daulby added: “The ASB and Serious Violence event was an important opportunity to listen, learn, and strengthen our shared commitment to safer communities. The discussions highlighted not only the challenges we face, but also the collective determination to make a real difference.

“From my own personal experiences it is crucial that we strive to do everything in our power to educate our young people on the consequences of ASB, Serious Violence and the dangers of knife crime.”

Chief Inspector Gemma Barr from Lancashire’s Violence Reduction Network said: “Within the Violence Reduction Network, our belief is that violence is preventable, not inevitable. Through initiatives like our Champions programme and Emergency Department Navigator service, we are helping young people see and seize opportunities beyond violence.

“For over five years we have worked side by side with partners across the county to tackle the underlying causes of violence and it’s this collective, early-intervention approach that enables real and lasting change.

“This event reinforced how vital it is for all of us to work together to strengthen our partnerships and create safer communities across Lancashire.”

The Lancashire Violence Reduction Network (LVRN), part of the Office of the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, works under Commissioner Clive Grunshaw to bring together organisations across local communities to tackle the underlying causes that contribute to serious violent crime.