More than £2.1million has been invested in youth coaches based at police station across the capital to steer children away from knife crime.
The workers will divert those aged 10 to 25 at risk of joining gangs in 12 Metropolitan Police policing areas, London’s Violence Reduction Unit said.
Over the past year, 1,500 youngsters detained in custody suites have been supported.
Mayor Sadiq Khan announced the funding that builds on the Engage programme in Camden, Croydon Enfield, Harrow, Lambeth, Lewisham and Redbridge.
From this summer, it will be rolled out in Kingston, Hackney, Hillingdon and either Newham or Waltham Forest.
Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea or Hammersmith and Fulham are also earmarked for funds.
It brings the VRU’s investment in the programme to £5.1m, nearly doubling the number of intervention coaches working with young people following their arrest for offences like possessing weapons and drugs, theft and minor assault.
Mr Khan said: “Tackling violence and building a safer city for all Londoners is my top priority and I’m determined to build on the progress we have made by continuing to be tough on violence and tough on its complex causes.”
Lib Peck, director of London’s VRU, added: “Our approach is rooted in prevention and early intervention with a focus on reducing violence both now and in the long-term.
“Youth work plays a crucial role in prevention. They have supported thousands of young people at what is a point of crisis, giving them advice, helping them out of situations and towards opportunity, and providing that trusted adult relationship.”
Met Commander Owain Richards said: “Early intervention is key in diverting young people away from violence.
“Engage is a great example of this crucial work, showing how by working with our partners we can provide a fully rounded public health approach, with a shared goal of steering young people towards a more positive path.”
