HAMPSHIRE youths are being called upon to help tackle serious violence across the county.

Young people are being urged to give their ideas on how to battle knife crime, child exploitation and hate crime.

It comes as the Youth Commission which supports the Police and Crime Commissioner - Michael Lane - launches the 'Big Conversation 2021' campaign.

Each year the Youth Commission select key issues to focus on and this year it has chosen to continue with serious violence, exploitation and hate crime.

The commission works to raise awareness and educate young people on their chosen priorities via campaigns.

It also runs workshops, speaks at events and takes part in a range of other activities.

Commission member, Maddie Davis, 21, from Southampton said: “Hate crime was chosen as a priority because it is a prominent issue both in Hampshire and nationwide. As our society grows increasingly diverse, instances of hate crime appear to be rising; we want to change this because diversity should be celebrated and not criticised. We would like to hear thoughts and ideas from young people in Hampshire, the people that this issue actually affects so that we can help make the area kinder and safer for everyone.”

For more information visit the Hampshire Youth Commission or Big Conversation website.