COVENTRY MESSAGE BOARD

An artist in residence has been appointed as part of City of Culture 2021



West Midlands Police have hired their first artist in residence as part of a drive to tackle youth violence in Coventry.

The appointment of film-maker, poet and playwright Kay Rufai aims to build better connections with young people in the city.

It forms part of a new approach to tackling youth violence - called Barriers to Bridges - and is being funded by the Coventry City of Culture Trust and the office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

Kay will explore the role that arts and culture can play in breaking down barriers between police officers and younger members of the community.

It is hoped he can work with them to understand their experiences and help them find a voice.

The 37-year-old British-born Nigerian will share his time between young people in Coventry - who have encountered the police - and police officers in a bid to find real solutions to the problems of youth violence in the city.

observing day-to-day policing as well as interviewing officers and staff in particular roles.

He will also be running a series of workshops for young people who have been in contact with the police.

The artist will then have six weeks to put together a final presentation summing up his experience which will be showcased at the CVX Festival in August.