Mayor Liaquat Ali, Baroness Scotland and council leader Clyde Loakes at the launch of the new centre (EL8141)
VICTIMS of crime as young as seven will be able to rebuild their lives at a new centre opened by the Attorney General.
Baroness Scotland met teenagers and youngsters who had been robbed when she officially launched the Young People Affected by Crime Service in Chingford.
The Baroness, who grew up in Walthamstow, said: "Victims and witnesses of crime often feel powerless in the face of crime they have suffered.
"We can't do everything ourselves. The Government, the police, the council, witnesses and the criminal justice system all need to work together.
"Often young people are described as feral' but I think young people are great and we need to do the best for them.
"The centre will act as an important sanctuary, and will enable victims and witnesses to take back power from the criminals who have wronged them."
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The centre opened in November and aims to provide support and counselling to young people aged between seven and 18 who have been crime victims.
There are also activities arranged so that the youngsters can relax and take control of their lives after being shaken up by a robber or mugger.
Activities include trips to the cinema or zoo, sporting events and cooking, computing and art work courses.
Fifteeen-year-old D has already benefited from using the centre.
He said: "I was on my way to school when three teenagers who were younger than me asked me to hand over my jewellery to them.
"I refused and the ringleader slapped me in the face. I felt really angry. I found out from my 12-year-old brother that he was stopped by the same group of guys.
"They stole £2 from him. My parents called the police after they heard about this. The robbers went to court and were given community punishment orders.
"I would have liked to see the ringleader jailed. A few months ago the Youth Offending Team referred me to the centre. I have been able to talk about my experiences and play card games with other youngsters."
Borough commander Mark Benbow added that teenagers are frequently targeted when they carry mobile phones, ipods, and small hand held computers.
But he added he was encouraged that more robberies are being reported and this centre would help that trend continue.
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