This work focuses particularly on grass-roots interventions in the Aston area of Birmingham , working with young adults (18-24) of Asian origin – Pakistani, Indian and Bangladeshi; meeting the Barrow Cadbury theme of “Offending and Early Intervention”. This is not being currently met by existing agencies in the area. Young Disciples is a very good agency addressing major issues, but do not cater for the target group we are aiming the Asian community of Aston, especially 18-24. Also the need and demand for this project is further justified by the negative media portrayal of the area and its residents, further perpetuating the social deprivation.

Furthermore many of the interventions available are aimed at the Afro-Caribbean community, ignoring the culturally sensitive needs of Asian youth. The investment and partnership with Barrow Cadbury Trust will enable to address these issues and the sharing of good practice. A key principle of mediation is that the people with the conflict are the ones best placed to find ways forward. Imposed solutions do not necessarily address the underlying resentment and bitterness which conflict can cause. Mediation provides an opportunity for exploring these and repairing the harm done to relationships caused by conflict. Young people can learn the skills of conflict management from an early age. This project will act as a medium to engage with, and signpost participants who are not in any education, employment or training, (NEET), to the necessary partner agencies to meet these needs.

The process will be a whole solutions approach with the objectives:

• an introduction to conflict management skills
• a basic mediation training
• a framework for passing these skills on to young people
• guidelines for establishing a peer-mediation scheme

The community gains will be highlighted in the short-term through the services the youth provide, and in the long term from the future roles these youth will play as engaged and productive citizens.

Youth will learn how to be an effective positive citizen and become an involved, committed member of their community. Learn new personal and teamwork skills such as: time management and communication skills; how to work with a very diverse group of peers, both in age and background; and make new friends among a diverse group of youths united by a thirst for change, leadership and knowledge; and change their world and the future for the better, enabling youth ideas and solutions to be implemented at all levels. Barrow Cadbury will be supporting the process of people identifying their own solutions.

With the impact and results to be used to influence national policy and work that promotes a social justice approach to dealing with offending. The project, findings and recommendations will intend to influence social policy, public opinion and share good practice both regionally and nationally; enabling the project to be replicated. Working with Barrow Cadbury will provide a platform for the community enabling them to have a voice, enabling local action to effect national change.