An event in Sandwell celebrating young women’s voices and promoting safety has been hailed a “great success”.

More than 100 young people attended the #LetUsBe event at Sandwell College Central campus, West Bromwich, which was organised by Sandwell Council’s young people’s services for the Safer Sandwell Partnership.

The event – part of the Home Office-funded Safer Streets project in West Bromwich – included a wide range of speakers, performances, stalls and workshops. #LetUsBe also promoted the #ItsNotOk message against sexual violence and harassment towards women and girls.

Over the past few months, detached youth workers have consulted with young women aged 11 to 25 on how safe they feel, including face-to-face sessions in the town. Young women have created artwork as well as campaigns and resources for others to use to help keep safe – and these were exhibited at the #LetUsBe event. Youth workers and young people have also liaised with local businesses and partner organisations during the project.

Councillor Karen Simms, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for children and education, said: “The #LetUsBe event was a great success. I would like to thank everyone who helped put on such an inspiring day and all the young people who have taken part in the project and attended the event.

“I would also like to highlight the work of our detached youth workers for building such good trust and relationships with young women in the town.”