Students from Farnborough Spencer Academy, facilitated and trained by Nottingham Trent University, have presented their findings on crime and antisocial behaviour in Clifton, highlighting key issues and practical solutions as part of the Safer Streets 5 (SS5) initiative.
The students found that boredom and a lack of varied activities were major concerns, with many young people feeling there were limited opportunities beyond sports. Safety was another key issue, with calls for better street lighting, cleaner parks, and more welcoming community spaces. Connections with the police also emerged as an important theme, with young people expressing a desire for more positive engagement with officers.
SS5 is the latest round of the Safer Streets Fund, launched by the UK government to tackle neighbourhood crime and antisocial behaviour. Since its inception in 2020, the Safer Streets Fund has invested £159 million across England and Wales, supporting 413 projects aimed at creating safer communities.
The students’ research, based on peer-led discussions and focus groups, was shared directly with senior decision-makers, including the Police and Crime
Commissioner (PCC) and the Superintendent of Nottinghamshire Police.
“We wanted to understand why, even with so many people trying to help, some young people still get involved in crime and antisocial behaviour,” one student explained. “It’s not just about bad choices—it’s about the situations young people are in. If we can improve those, we can make a real difference.”
Their recommendations included creating more safe spaces, improving awareness and accessibility of activities, and building stronger relationships between young people and the police. By leading this research and engaging directly with decision-makers, the students demonstrated the importance of youth-led action in shaping safer communities.
“We are very proud of the work our students have completed in the Safer Streets project – each of the students have gained many leadership skills on the programme and their work has allowed young people’s voices to be heard on ways they want to improve the Clifton Community.” said J Malloney, Assistant Principal.
Written by Hannah Charlton, Community Engagement Coordinator at Nottingham Trent University