VRU - Provision of Hospital Based Youth Work Services

The Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) is seeking providers to deliver Hospital-Based Youth Work services across 10 London hospital sites from April 2027. Building on over a decade of City Hall investment, the service places specialist youth workers within Major Trauma Centres (MTCs) and Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments to support young people affected by violence, exploitation and safeguarding concerns.

The service will engage young people aged 11-25 who present at participating hospitals as victims, or suspected victims, of violence, exploitation, sexual violence or other safeguarding risks. Youth workers provide immediate emotional and practical support during a critical "reachable moment", helping young people recover from trauma, reduce future harm, and access ongoing support in their communities.

The commission is structured into four geographical Lots covering 10 hospital sites. Providers must demonstrate strong local knowledge, effective partnership working, and the ability to deliver high-quality, trauma-informed youth work within hospital and community settings. Partnership and consortium bids are encouraged.

The programme aims to reduce violence and exploitation, improve young people's safety and wellbeing, increase access to positive opportunities and support, reduce hospital re-attendance linked to violence, and reduce offending and reoffending.

The contract will run from January 2027 to March 2029, with service delivery commencing in April 2027 and an option to extend for a further 24 months to March 2031. The total potential contract value is up to £9.4m (excluding VAT), subject to funding and approvals.