1. An alternative to gang culture
Julia Wolton
X-it Gang Desistance Programme
London Borough of Lambeth
What follows now is a description of the X-it Programme 1

2. R.I.P Bowser Loved by many, respected by all, gone but not forgotten.
In loving memory of Nathan Foster

3. The Picture in Lambeth Operation Trident Borough
Total crime numbers in Lambeth fell by 7.5 % between 2006 and 2007
However, gun-enabled crime has increased by 37% in Lambeth this year
Gun enabled crime by under 20 year olds has increased by 50%
Currently 27 “crews” operating in the Borough
The gang offers young people an alternative family

4. A Youth Work Approach Participation is voluntary Young person led
Operates within a community context
Works both on an individual level and with peer groups
Concentrates on “needs” rather than “deeds”
Works in partnership
Creates alternative identities
Offers young people opportunities

5. Peer Workers Young people who have been participants on
programme are employed on subsequent programmes
Responsible for:
Programme Design
Recruitment
Role Models
Motivation
Support
Taking a Leadership role
Programme Promotion

6. What We Offer Four part modular programme running over 32 weeks
10 week group work
6 Day intensive residential
20 week leadership programme (RAW)
Personal development and mentoring support scheme
Provides progression into training; and opportunities such as conferences; consultancy and business

7. The Impact
Independent evaluation identified 72% non-reoffending rate over 12 months
Young people given a voice
Young people progressed into returning to school, further education or training
Programme provides employment opportunities
Young people currently creating their own social enterprise
Participants are influencers amongst their peers

8. Advice We believe that the following practices make a
programme successful:
Young person led
Voluntary Participation
It provides opportunities
It builds self esteem
Works in partnership
Works with groups rather than individuals
The X-it Young people work as consultants in creating
programmes. Contact: for
further information

9. Your response
What can be learned from the approach of X-it in providing an alternative to gang culture in your local community?