New VRP director vows to turn the tide on violent crime
The new director of the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) aims to “change attitudes and behaviours” around serious violence.
Detective Chief Superintendent Lee Berry, who has more than 26 years’ policing experience, replaces Chief Superintendent Jackie Marsh who is retiring from the role.
Using a pioneering public health approach, the VRP brings together organisations across local communities to tackle the underlying causes of serious violent crime.
Most recently a West Yorkshire Police safeguarding and crime portfolio lead, Det Chief Supt Berry has also coordinated the force’s response to tackling violence against women and girls.
He is also no stranger to addressing serious violence locally, having been the joint head of the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit earlier in his career.
Det Chief Supt Berry says the latest phase of partnership working in West Yorkshire is opening up more possibilities:
“The recent launch of the VRP puts us in the right position, enabling us to do even more together to keep our communities safe,” he said.
“It is a real privilege to take up this crucial role, and the fact that the maturity of our partnership is nationally recognised, is testament to the progress already made.
“I will be using all my knowledge and expertise to build upon these foundations, helping to change attitudes and behaviours surrounding serious violence.”
Since 2020, the West Yorkshire VRP has worked with more than 100 different agencies, and supported around 50,000 young people aged under 25, and 3,000 over 25.
Chief Supt Marsh said: “I am extremely proud of all we have achieved in tackling serious violence across West Yorkshire, and I know Det Chief Supt Berry is deeply committed to realising our joint ambitions.
“Having someone with his passion and experience at the helm will only take us forward in protecting our young people from harm.”
West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, also welcomed the new director to the partnership.
“I know Det Chief Supt Berry has already built many strong partnerships and community relationships across his various roles, and this is a real asset in combatting serious violent crime,” she said.
“By capitalising on those connections, we can encourage more engagement, ensuring West Yorkshire remains a safe place where our young people can flourish.”