Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, this week hosted Virtual Decisions in Parliament to demonstrate how innovative virtual reality (VR) technology can support efforts to tackle knife crime and anti-social behaviour.
Virtual Decisions works with schools, councils, police forces, and youth services across the country. Their interactive VR programmes place young people in realistic, high-pressure situations, helping them to understand the consequences of carrying a knife or engaging in anti-social behaviour.
Speaking after the event, Dr Shastri-Hurst MP said:
“Knife crime and anti-social behaviour continue to have a serious impact on communities across the West Midlands. We must ensure that young people are given the tools, support, and guidance to make the right choices.
Virtual Decisions’ programme is an excellent example of early intervention in action. By enabling young people to experience difficult scenarios in a safe environment, it helps them to think differently, build confidence, and recognise the long-term consequences of dangerous decisions.
I was pleased to host them in Parliament and to highlight the importance of practical, evidence-based approaches to reducing youth violence.”
The event provided MPs and parliamentary staff with the opportunity to test the VR system first-hand and learn how it is being used to support youth workers, local authorities, and police teams across the UK.
Dr Shastri-Hurst has been a strong advocate for measures to reduce knife crime, including Stop the Bleed training, closer partnership working with local police, and support for early-intervention programmes.
He added:
“I am committed to ensuring that Solihull West & Shirley has access to the most effective tools to keep young people safe. I look forward to exploring opportunities to bring this programme to our local schools and community groups.”
For further information about Virtual Decisions, please visit: www.virtualdecisions.co.uk
