Join local professionals to hear about projects and real ways to tackle violence and make Bradford a safer place for everyone

Bradford Anti-Violence Month 2026: Working Together for Safer Communities

Bradford's 4th Annual Anti-Violence Month brings together community leaders, practitioners, partner organisations, young people and residents in a shared commitment to preventing violence and building safer, stronger communities across the district.

This year's programme features keynote speaker Southport survivor, Leanne Lucas, whose powerful story of courage, resilience and advocacy has inspired people across the country. Her contribution will encourage important conversations about the impact of violence, the importance of community action, and the role we all play in creating safer environments for children, young people and families. Leanne will also talk about her project, a mission to reduce knife crime through practical, everyday actions that create safer communities. Home | Let's Be Blunt .

Throughout the month, local leaders and organisations from across Bradford will showcase the innovative projects, partnerships and interventions being delivered to address the root causes of violence. From youth engagement programmes and early intervention initiatives to community safety partnerships, education campaigns and trauma-informed approaches, the district continues to invest in evidence-based work that supports prevention, resilience and positive opportunities for residents.

The event will provide a platform to celebrate achievements, share learning and highlight the collective efforts of statutory services, voluntary and community organisations, health partners and local communities. Attendees will hear first-hand about the impact being made across Bradford and the ongoing commitment to reducing violence, supporting those affected, and creating lasting positive change.

Anti-Violence Month reflects Bradford's determination to work collaboratively, listen to community voices and champion approaches that put prevention, inclusion and hope at the heart of safer neighbourhoods. Together, we can continue building a district where everyone feels safe, supported and empowered to thrive.

Timings are as follows, however may be subject to change:

09.00-09.30 Arrival and Networking

09.30-09.40 Opening Remarks, Michelle Buchan

09.40-10.00 Alison Lowe

10.00-10.20 Knife Crime Concentration Fund – Ch.Insp. John-Paul Berriff

10.20-10.40 Violence Reduction Partnership – Heather Wilson

10.40-10.50 Comfort Break

10.50-11.50 Bradford Showcase

- Youth Justice Service

- Breaking the Cycle

- Not OK, Never OK

- WYP Early Action Team

- Bradford City FC Community

- Operation Phoenix – County Lines

11.50-12.20 Keynote Presentation – Leanne Lucas, Let’s Be Blunt CIC

12.20.12.30 Closing Remarks

Together Against Violence. Together for Bradford.

Description supplied by the event organiser.