The Venture is one of the UK's leading local children, young people and families organisations. Described in Westminster in 2003 by former Secretary of State for Wales as "one of the best [children's organisations] in the country, if not in Europe", The Venture has played a significant role in achieving unique levels of success in key areas of British social policy. 

​

1. Youth crime

​

Youth crime in Caia Park fell by 28% in the first year of The Venture's life and by 54% in the first 6 years, falling steadily since. Working very closely with key partners such as the Youth Justice Service, North Wales Police, housing and education providers, The Venture has delivered a range of direct services, such as the Youth Justice Board's Youth Inclusion Programme, and has continually supported other agencies to provide practical, focused interventions. The results has been dramatic.

​

In most parts of the estate, youth crime has been reduced to very low levels. In 2008/09, North Wales Police reported: 

 

"Recently the Wynnstay ward (where The Venture is situated) had an entire month of zero crime and not a single call to Police of anti-social behaviour. For an area tarred with so many brushes in the past, this is an incredible achievement by anybody's standards"

​

2. Family support

​

The establishment of The Venture Early Year Centre in 1988 provided the foundation to enable support and intervention at a much earlier stage. Health, education and personal growth programmes are woven into the daily life of the centre, with life changing results for many families.

​

For more information, visit our Early Years Centre pages.

​

3. Educational outcomes

​

In conjunction with improved leadership in local schools, The Venture has significantly facilitated the positive development of educational outcomes or many individual children and families. In particular, The Venture Alternative Learning (VAL) project with Year 10 and 11 students has produced 100% success with no leavers becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). 

​

4. Child Poverty

​

The disastrous effects of child poverty on the health and wellbeing of children has been well-documented. The Venture strives to limit this detrimental impact, providing opportunities and hope for the future, aiming to reverse the effects of bleak, unfulfilled lives. In response, many individuals and families have expressed feeling happier and more fulfilled. The improvement in the current statistical position is also encouraging.