MTV tackles teen crime with police

MTV has partnered with the Metropolitan Police and EMI Music to educate teenagers about youth violence in London. The parties have converted a former police riot van as a roving education centre to tour the capital from autumn this year.

The vehicle is being used by the production team behind MTV programme Pimp My Ride UK and a special half hour show, presented by DJ Tim Westwood, has been commissioned. Web-based elements will appear on a support network for young people.

Tim Westwood says the move is “another positive step being taken to address this serious issue that is affecting people across the UK”. The van intends to provide a “neutral” environment where young people can meet, as well as services such as recording technology for young people to learn the basic skills required for music production.

London-based youth charity XLP, which has been working with the Metropolitan Police, will introduce the vehicle in seven London boroughs including Southwark, Greenwich and Islington.