Enter the Dragons' Den
Brent Police in partnership with Brent Youth Parliament and Brent Community Safety Board have launched 'Brent Dragons' Den'.
Inspired by the BBC programme, and supported by the local media, 'Brent Dragons' Den', is open to 13 to 19-year-olds who live or go to school in Brent.
Those familiar with the TV programme will know that ideas are put forward to a panel who then decide which ones they will invest in.
In this competition, however, young people are being asked to come up with innovative ideas on how to reduce youth crime in Brent and how to make youngsters feel safe. The winning idea will be given £6,000 to make their concept a reality.
The idea of launching a Dragons' Den style competition in Brent came from Inspector Neil Anderson, who heads up Safer Neighbourhoods, North.
Inspector Anderson said: "I meet lots of young people who have some great ideas about how to stop young people engaging in crime, I thought by using the Dragons' Den format we could give young people the opportunity to pitch their ideas and roll them out for real.
If you have any ideas of how to prevent young people becoming involved in crime, joining gangs or carrying knives, our dragons want to hear about them. In particular, we are looking for ideas, which help promote positive images of young people, or initiatives that would improve your environment and make you feel safer in Brent.
"We are working with our Safer Schools Officers, Youth Engagement Team and Brent Youth Parliament to encourage young people in Brent to take part. We are also pleased that this initiative has gained the support of all three of our local papers."
The shortlisted groups will get the opportunity to do a five-minute presentation in front of Brent's very own Dragons' panel and the winning group will get £6,000 to implement their idea. A minimum group size of three will apply.
If you would like an application form please contact Inspector Neil Anderson on 07768 500031 or email him on Neil.Anderson2@met.police.uk. The deadline for submissions is 9 March.