The Innovations project works with black, minority and ethnic young men aged between 13 and 18 who are at risk of offending. The project uses film-making to explore the issues that affect young people’s lives. Discussions focus on self-image, identity, experience of racism, and coping strategies. Both course leaders are from black, minority and ethnic backgrounds and act as positive role models to attendees. Course leaders stay in close contact with attendees and their families outside the sessions.
A maximum of eight young people attend each course. The courses run once a week for six sessions, and then for two full days during the spring holidays. Outcome data is not yet available but the course organisers are planning to extend it.
Each course costs £5,000. Plymouth Innovations is a partnership between the youth offending team, Race Equality Council, and local college.