Addressing vulnerability and risk

Selective prevention responses for vulnerable groups are implemented in European countries through interventions that address both individual behaviours and social contexts. At the local level, such approaches can involve multiple services and stakeholders (e.g. social, family, youth and police), and are common in the Nordic countries and Ireland, as well as parts of Spain and Italy. The groups most frequently targeted are young offenders, pupils with academic and social problems and youth in care institutions. Little is known about the actual contents of these prevention strategies and evaluation is limited. Expert opinion data, however, indicates that the most commonly used selective prevention techniques are based on information provision.

Prevention approaches that target high-risk neighbourhoods have been implemented in some countries, utilising new methods such as the redesigning of urban spaces, and risk maps to help prioritise interventions. Provision for these types of interventions is reported to be highest in the north and west of Europe, and approaches which have good evidence of effectiveness (normative and environmental) are implemented in just over a quarter of countries.

Prevention interventions targeting high-risk neighbourhoods implemented in European countries: evidence base and level of provision

Indicated prevention targets at-risk individuals. Provision of this type of intervention is limited in Europe, with only 4 countries reporting that indicated prevention programmes are available to the majority of those in need.