Chesterfield FC Community Trust successfully hosted the 37th Hope Hack on 12th February 2025, bringing together young people, community leaders, and professionals to address key issues affecting youth today. Part of The Hope Collective’s nationwide initiative, the event provided a platform for young people to engage in meaningful discussions on substance use, relationships with the police, social media, and personal connections.
The Hope Hack, designed to inspire and empower young people, encouraged participants to share their experiences and ideas on these pressing topics. The event featured interactive workshops, creative activities, and open conversations, enabling attendees to express their opinions and contribute to solutions that create positive change in their communities.
Themes for the discussions were identified through focus groups conducted by VRU staff across Chesterfield schools, ensuring that the event addressed real concerns faced by local young people. Attendees had the opportunity to present their insights and recommendations directly to community leaders, including Assistant Chief Constable of Derbyshire Constabulary, Michelle Shooter.
Renowned spoken word artist Nathan Parker set the tone for the day with a powerful poetry performance, using his artistry to inspire attendees. His unique ability to articulate life’s complexities through spoken word has captivated audiences across the UK. Nathan bookended the event with two performances, concluding with a poem he crafted throughout the day, reflecting on the experiences and discussions he observed.
Listen now:
Download written version of poetic summary
StreetDoctors, a youth health organisation, delivered an engaging session on knife crime, educating attendees on first aid skills that could be lifesaving in incidents of street violence. Their interactive talk empowered participants to take control during emergency situations, instilling confidence and resilience through practical knowledge.
Jamie Dean from Derbyshire City Council presented a thought-provoking discussion on social media, exploring both its benefits and potential risks. His session encouraged young people to reflect on their digital interactions, consider the impact of their online presence, and navigate social media responsibly.
Performing on the day was Niamh Toner, a local singer/songwriter with a passion for elevating young minds and fostering their potential.
Following the previous Hope Hack event at Derby Theatre, a survey found that over 73% of attendees would recommend the experience to other young people. Early indications suggest that the Chesterfield event has similarly resonated with participants, further strengthening the impact of the initiative.
The Derby and Derbyshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), a key partner of The Hope Collective, remains committed to its preventative approach to reducing youth involvement in serious violence. Recognising the critical role of hope and opportunity, the VRU continues to collaborate with partners to create safe and supportive environments for young people.
For more information about the Chesterfield Hope Hack, please contact vru@derbyshire.police.uk.