Are the Summer Holidays Linked to an Increase in Youth Violent Crime?

Youth violent crime spikes during the summer months. While we may not have a full understanding of why that should be the case, it’s important that victims of youth violent crime see justice. The Government-published figures on youth violent crime aren't broken down by season. However, the general trend suggests that youth crime, including youth violent crime, increases over the school summer holidays.

The Youth Justice Statistics Government report for 2022 to 2023 states that violence against the person offences (assaults) have increased the most as a proportion of all offences by children. In the report for that year there were 3,400 knife or offensive weapon offences committed by young people.

Why Does Youth Violent Crime Spike During the Summer Months?

The summer holidays are a cherished time for many young people, filled with the promise of fun, freedom, and a break from the routine of school. However, this period also sees a troubling rise in youth violent crime. As schools close their doors for the summer, communities often grapple with a surge in delinquent behaviours among adolescents. Understanding the factors behind this spike is crucial for parents, educators, and policymakers who are aiming to keep young people safe and engaged during these months.

Youth Violent Crime Spikes Due to Lack of Supervision

During the school year, students benefit from the structured environment and supervision provided by teachers and parents. The school schedule offers a consistent routine that keeps youths engaged in academic and extracurricular activities. In contrast, summer holidays can leave many adolescents unsupervised for extended periods, increasing the likelihood of unfettered delinquent behaviour.  

For some, school provides a refuge from troubled home environments. When school is out, young people may spend more time in environments where they are exposed to violence or criminal behaviour. The absence of the protective and supportive school environment can leave them vulnerable.

Peer Pressure and Boredom Contribute to an Increase in Youth Violent Crime

With no school, summer often means more time spent with friends for young people. While positive peer relationships can be a source of support and growth, negative peer pressure can lead to involvement in violent or criminal activities. The desire to fit in or gain approval from peers can drive some adolescents to partake in delinquent behaviours. So the more time they spend with bad influencers, the more likely they are to want to fit into their friendship group at any cost.

And it’s not just pressure from friends. An abundance of free time and fewer structured activities may force young people to turn to negative behaviours out of sheer boredom. The absence of school-related responsibilities can lead to idle hands, which, as the saying goes, are “the devil's workshop.” Without constructive outlets for their energy, and bolstered by encouragement from friends, youths may engage in risky actions, including violence.

Economic Factors and Substance Abuse can Be a Factor in Youth Violent Crime Rates

Families with fewer financial resources may not be able to afford to pay for extracurricular activities or go away on holiday. In many communities, especially those with limited resources, there may be a scarcity of recreational facilities or programmes during the summer. This lack of positive and engaging activities can leave young people with few options for occupying their time. Therefore increasing the likelihood of them getting involved in criminal activities.

Youths from lower socioeconomic backgrounds might resort to illegal activities, both as a form of entertainment and as a means to make money. Higher rates of substance abuse occur during summer months. Parties and social gatherings become more frequent, often accompanied by alcohol and drug use. Substance abuse is a significant risk factor for violent behaviour, as it impairs judgment and reduces inhibitions. But drug-dealing also comes with risks and youth violent crime can stem from making a wrong move in illegal drug markets while trying to make some extra cash.  

Heat and Aggression

We all know that the temperature is rising and that can be problematic in the UK, where we don’t have the infrastructure to effectively deal with the heat. There is evidence to suggest that higher temperatures can increase aggression, and not just in relation to youth violent crime. Summer heatwaves can exacerbate tensions and lead to a rise in violent behaviour. The discomfort and stress associated with extreme heat can reduce patience and increase irritability, contributing to conflicts.

City Centres are Hotspots for Youth Violent Crime

The problem of youth violent crime is greatest in cities and town centres. In July 2023, London Mayor, Sadiq Khan was quoted as saying “We know that there is traditionally a spike in violence over the warmer, summer months.”  

Youth violent Crime is more likely to be found in busy city centres mostly due to high population density. This means more interactions and, consequently, more opportunities for conflicts to arise. The sheer number of people in close proximity can lead to tensions and clashes, especially in crowded public spaces. Crowded places can also offer up anonymity, which can embolden people to act more aggressively.  

There are also far more potential targets for youth violent crimes in cities and town centres, from individuals to businesses. The concentration of shops, tourists, and commuters provides more opportunities for theft, muggings, and other violent crimes.

Specific operations in the police force focus on youth violent crime. Local authorities are encouraged to develop youth incentives designed to give children places to go and things to concentrate their energy on.  

Support for Victims of Youth Violent Crime

All children should be able to enjoy their summer break without fear of violence. Youth charities, such as Lives Not Knives, are working with the local police to curb youth violent crime. They also provide programmes with summer activities aimed at keeping young people occupied in healthy ways. However, for the moment, youth violent crime persists.

If you are the parent of a child who has been a victim of youth violent crime, you may be able to claim compensation. Compensation can help young people and families to cope with the trauma of violent crime.  

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme allows parents to claim on behalf of their children. Compensation is awarded for both physical and mental injuries stemming from violent crime. For example, knife crime, which often results in serious injuries or wounds, leaving permanent scarring.  

For help and advice about claims with the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), or to find out more information about CICA claims, you can call us on 0113 320 5000 or email @email