The number of teenagers and under-25s murdered in London is at its lowest level since 2012 and 2003 respectively, data up to 2024 shows.
Data compiled by City Hall tracking the number of murders in the capital since 2003 shows a distinct fall in 2024, with 30 under-25s being killed in 2024, with 12 of them being teenagers (aged 13-19).
The data also shows that the number of teenagers and under-25s murdered is the lowest in any full year since London mayor Sadiq Khan took office – in 2016 – and following a peak in 2017, the rates have fluctuated year on year but indicate a trend downwards.
This comes as the mayor’s mentoring program, the New Deal for Young People has delivered its target to provide 100,000 young people who are in most need of support with a mentor, meeting the target ahead of schedule.
Khan said: “I know first-hand the difference a trusted mentor can make to a young person’s life which is why I’m delighted to announce that I have delivered on my manifesto commitment to provide access to a mentor for 100,000 young people in need of support in London.”
The mentoring program was carried out by over 150 youth organisations – with £34million being made available from City Hall – including schools, community groups, and local authorities, to divert young people at risk away from harm, exploitation, and crime.
Vanessa Longley, CEO of Chance UK, one of the organisations that have delivered the mentoring program, said: “We only get one chance at childhood, but children are facing growing challenges.
“If we leave them to cope alone more will end up in crisis.
“We believe in getting in early, and giving children the support and tools they need to grow well, making a difference that lasts a lifetime.”
The latest ONS figures also show that the violent crime rate is lower in London than in the rest of the country, with 27.8 recorded violence against the person offenses per 1,000 population in the Met area, which is lower than the national average of 32.9 per 1,000 population.
Jay*, a young Londoner who received mentoring through Hounslow Youth Counselling Service, said: “Honestly, mentoring has changed my outlook on myself and life.
“I achieved more than I thought was possible, all thanks to my mentor.
“They helped me understand my emotions and now I feel like a lot of weight has come off my chest.”
*Real name not used
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