Redbridge Council and police host youth engagement event to build trust

Redbridge Council’s ‘Reach Out’ initiative, in partnership with Redbridge Police and the Leyton Orient Kicks programme, recently hosted a youth engagement event at Loxford Leisure Centre aimed at strengthening relationships between young people and local authorities.

The event welcomed around 40 local teenagers for an afternoon of sport, open discussion, and community building. Developed in response to requests from Redbridge Youth Council, the initiative provided a safe and inclusive space for young people to engage directly with police officers, council staff, and community leaders.

Staff from Reach Out, alongside Superintendent Clare McCarthy and her team, spent time listening to young people’s concerns around crime, violence, and trust in policing. Officers also offered practical crime prevention advice and encouraged dialogue on sensitive topics such as stop and search and violence against women and girls.

The day concluded with a spirited football match, where young people played alongside police officers and a team representing Leyton Orient Kicks—highlighting sport as a powerful tool for connection and mutual understanding.

Yusuf Shobair, Member of Youth Parliament and event initiator, said: “It was inspiring to see so many young people come together – not only to enjoy football, but to take part in meaningful conversations with the police, youth services and partners. Too often, my role as a Youth MP is viewed as symbolic without real impact, but this shows what happens when leaders genuinely listen and care. Engagement like this matters: when those in authority take time to listen and work alongside us, barriers begin to break down.”

Cllr Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, added: “This event marks a continued commitment by Redbridge Council and its partners to foster meaningful engagement, promote safety, and build trust within the community. It is vital that we provide opportunities, like this event and our regular MegaMix programme, during the school holidays for young people to unwind through sport and self-expression. Equally important is creating safe spaces where they can speak openly with council and police officers about issues affecting their lives.”

Superintendent Clare McCarthy, Head of Neighbourhood Policing, said: “Playing sports and adding competitive matches is a great way to engage with young people who may ordinarily choose not to speak with police. These interactions helped officers show their human side, bridge the gap, and build stronger relationships with the next generation.”