Wood Green, London

A group of young people in Wood Green, London , realised that there was a threatening atmosphere locally and that the area lacked any real sense of community. Racial abuse and violence were commonplace, making many young people afraid within their own communities.

Kotchin, a racially diverse group of young women and men, decided that there was a need for some change to ensure their future. They went about setting up a group specifically for young people and a space that they made their own.

The project has successfully opened channels between different communities and encouraged young people not to carry weapons for protection. Their work over the last two years, which was supported by the Salvation Army, has helped future and younger generations to grow up with a level of acceptance of people regardless of race, colour or religion. Expanding from four to thirty young people, the group has built friendships and motivated and empowered each other.