The head of an antiviolence activist group has praised the Government’s new approach to crime — but levelled some “critical questions” at the strategy.

Gina Spence-Virgil, of the Gina Spence Programme charity, which deals with families affected by violence and gun murder, welcomed the restorative approach of the National Violence Reduction Strategy put forward by Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security.

However, she called on the minister to back up the effectiveness of this approach, which would see more of a collaboration between violent perpetrators and their victims.

Ms Spence-Virgil also asked for plans to protect grieving families and children, as well as the plan’s priority areas and the strategies for tackling them, its moves to engage at-risk young people and a timeline for the roll-out.

She said: “Minister Weeks, I know you have an incredibly challenging task ahead, but I want to reiterate my gratitude for your efforts.

“The Gina Spence Programme stands ready to collaborate and contribute to these initiatives, ensuring that the community’s needs are met with compassion and a focus on healing.”

Ms Spence was speaking after Mr Weeks tabled the strategy’s policy document during the House of Assembly on Friday.

The strategy looks to steer young Bermudians away from antisocial behaviour through early intervention and community programmes.

It also looks to build support systems for those trying to leave gangs, as well as improved enforcement measures and public awareness campaigns.

One of the methods involved suggests a restorative justice approach, which looks to enhance recovery programmes for incarcerated criminals and better parole support.

Ms Spence-Virgil said that the strategy aligned with the aim of one of her projects, the Champions Programme, which helps youngsters move on from deaths through violent crimes.

She added that she was “honoured” to serve as a resource to support the tactics.

Ms Spence-Virgil asked, however, for data that proved the effectiveness of “collaboration between victims and perpetrators”.

She asked how children and other “vulnerable” members of grieving families were to be protected throughout the process.

The National Violence Reduction Strategy will put together early education and social skill programmes to teach children how to resolve conflicts nonviolently.

Vocational studies will later be given to help high schools create alternative career pathways for students who may not be inclined towards traditional academics.

The strategy will see the Government connect with after-school programmes and youth centres to create spaces for young people and reduce the chances of them slipping into involvement with a gang.

Mental health services will be expanded upon and made more visible for youngsters who need it.

Those who interact with young people daily will also be educated on the warning signs of gang involvement, and how to intervene.

The National Violence Reduction Strategy will work in tandem with the National Youth Policy, which seeks to address the problems faced by young Bermudians.

Other methods would include vocational studies and job access for young adults, adult-oriented mental health services and relocation programmes for drastic situations.