FULLY BOOKED Street Belonging: Violence, Connection and Healing – Graeme Armstrong (In person – Inverness)

Street Belonging: Violence, Connection and Healing

Keynote Guest Speaker – Graeme Armstrong, author of the bestselling novel The Young Team and presenter of the BBC documentary series Street Gangs.

Followed by –The 1.5-hour presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, coffee, and an opportunity for 1-to-1 discussions with Graeme.

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to invite you to a free staff conference featuring Graeme Armstrong, author of the bestselling novel The Young Team and presenter of the BBC documentary series Street Gangs.

This is a unique opportunity for all staff and practitioners working with young people in the Highlands to gain valuable insights into gang culture, youth violence, and the power of connection and healing.

Graeme Armstrong, drawing on his own lived experience, will deliver a powerful and insightful presentation exploring the social history of Scottish gang culture, its modern manifestations (including youth violence on social media), and current crime statistics related to violence in schools.  He will share his personal journey through gang life, weapon carrying, substance misuse, and the transformative impact of leadership, compassion, and the support of educators.

The presentation will cover sensitive topics including substance misuse and serious violence, illustrated with real-life images from Graeme’s own experiences.  It will also examine the work of inspirational figures like Karyn McCluskey and John Carnochan, as well as the influence of initiatives like Homeboy Industries.

For staff without lived or community experience of these issues, this event promises to be an eye-opening and potentially emotional experience. This is an invaluable opportunity for staff in the Highlands and we strongly encourage you to prioritise your attendance.

Places are available free of charge but may be limited to allow fair mix of teams/service/agency depending on demand. 

Completing this booking application does not automatically confirm place at event.  Confirmation of secured booking will be sent via email prior to the event along with venue & registration details.  Please note, the CPC do operate a non-attendance charge of £30 if places are not taken up and no notice is given (at least 48 hours before event).

Informal Enquiries can be made to

Email: Amy.Scott-Woodhouse@highland.gov.uk

Ian.Mackinnon@highland.gov.uk or Sarah.Young@highland.gov.uk