Note: To keep the young people’s identity confidential, we refer to them as 'Michael' and ‘Oscar’ throughout the example below. Any individuals in the header image are for illustrative purposes only and are not the subjects of this case study.
About Young Futures Panels
Young Futures Panels support earlier, more effective interventions for children and young people at risk of poor life outcomes and increased vulnerability to crime. By identifying these individuals sooner, the programme makes sure they are offered access to tailored support.
Our organisation played a central part in the rollout of the Young Futures Panel in Hull by funding, coordinating, shaping and supporting the initiative. Keep reading to discover how brothers Michael and Oscar learnt how to manage their anger after working with their assigned Interventions Officer.
History and home visit
Michael was referred due to an allegation of an assault that was later deemed ‘No Further Action’ needed. His brother Oscar was referred by the Hull Youth Justice Service. The Young Futures Panel decided to work holistically with the family, which had a history of domestic abuse and alcoholism.
On the initial visit to their flat, the Interventions Officer noticed many issues including mould, a front door that didn’t open or lock properly and no floor coverings. In the immediate area, people were taking and dealing drugs.
Both boys were suspended from school on a near weekly basis. There was no outside support for the family such as social care or extended family. Their mother was struggling with working full-time, handling the school suspensions and making sure the children had everything they needed.
Anger and safety concerns
Michael struggled with anger management; whenever people said negative things about his family, he wanted to respond with violence and insulting words. Meanwhile Oscar had been involved with several fights and was often suspended from school for his defiant behaviour.
After talking to the brothers – often over interactive games like Jenga – the Interventions Officer discovered that they had similar concerns with feeling unsafe in their local area, low confidence and anger management issues.
Support at home and school
The brothers were educated on the consequences of bullying and carrying weapons and knives, which included discussions about local news stories. One Punch Hull & East Yorkshire also spoke to Michael and Oscar about the long-term impacts of violence and degrading other people.
The Interventions Officer helped Michael write a letter to a teacher who he had previously clashed with, outlining recommendations for the teacher’s consideration. The issues were addressed and the school has agreed not to suspend the brothers. In fact, the school has noted their improved attitude to learning.
To help with their self-esteem, the brothers went to art therapy and were referred to Tigers Trust. As a reward for their changed behaviour and excellent effort in school, Tigers Trust gave the family tickets to a Hull City match.
Their flat was cleared of mould and the family received new furniture. In the near future, their carpets and windows will also be replaced to help stabilise the home environment.
Results
Following the referral to the Young Futures Panel, Humberside Police has not received any further reports about the family. Michael and Oscar fully engaged with the activities and have a new, safer circle of friends to help them make more positive choices.
In August 2026, the family received a successful offer for a property in another area of Hull and are excited about the fresh start. To help her deal with past trauma, their mum was offered mental health support. She has also re-trained; her new job gives her greater flexibility and an improved work/life balance. She has sent numerous texts to the Interventions Officer thanking them for their assistance and for making her feel like she is not alone.
Now, Michael and Oscar can recognise negative behaviours and discuss these with family, teachers and friends. They are better at regulating their emotions and will take themselves away from the stressor to practise grounding techniques.
The Interventions Officer said: “Both boys have told me they feel heard and cared about and that they understand they must ask for help when they feel overwhelmed.”
