Young people are our future and from a law and order perspective the aim is to prevent as many as possible from falling into the criminal justice system and instead give them aspirations for a brighter future. As I have seen at first hand from my many visits to statutory and voluntary sector organisations, children from diverse backgrounds invariably have it much tougher than those more fortunate. There are multiple circumstances at play, from mental and physical disabilities, neurodiversity, or, very commonly, unstable and difficult family backgrounds.

We all know there are fewer youth clubs and facilities than in years gone by and this creates a vacuum sometimes filled by anti social behaviour. However, there are great examples across our county, from youth clubs to sports and dance/theatre clubs, cadets, scouts and guides, and there is a collective will to create new initiatives which our young people need and deserve. This is a core interest in my year as High Sheriff.

Schools are also increasingly recognising the differing needs of children and investing in pastoral and behavioural support teams. And for those leaving school, Herefordshire Council have just invested in the Youth Employment Hub, an excellent initiative to support young people into employment.

As I approach the half way point of my year as High Sheriff, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some great examples of organisations helping young people. I’ll list a few who have been generous to me with their time, but there are many others. Aconbury PRU, Longlands Care Farm, Westfield School, Whitecross and Bromyard QE school. Close House, Herefordshire Young Carers Club, The Basement at Ross. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing how with a little support, our young people can flourish. By way of example, I’ve enjoyed watching the ‘3degreez’ cheerleaders, the Courtyard youth theatre (an enjoyable production of Animal Farm), cadets parading at Armed Forces Day, in Leominster, children enjoying a ‘WOW’ session and Bromyard children a ‘HAF’ session at St Peter’s primary school.

Two absolute highlights were the Young Farmers Field Day and the Herefordshire Community Games, both full of huge numbers of kids having the most fun; and with essential support from wonderful adults making it safe and uplifting.

Of course, financial limitations are a hindrance. But equally there is a need for volunteers to lead and support groups. You don’t need to have performed in the West End or played sport at elite levels. Just as important are virtues such as enthusiasm, care and encouragement, and a belief that time supporting young people can make such a difference to their life chances.

Please do tell me about a youth project or where help needed. And do you know any youngsters who are themselves leading initiatives? We’d like to find Herefordshire candidates for the national Crimebeat awards.

There’s more at herefordshire@highsheriffs.com