Knife crime education during week of action

Suffolk Police visited 10 education settings across the county as part of Sceptre, the national initiative aimed at tackling knife crime and raising awareness amongst young people.

The visits during May were part of a co-ordinated effort to educate students in primary schools, secondary schools, specialist education and colleges about the dangers and consequences of carrying knives, whilst also building trust between young people and the police.

Officers delivered presentations and engaged in open discussions with pupils about personal safety, peer pressure and the law.

Inspector Winston Freeman said: “Early intervention and education is key. By speaking directly with young people we can help them understand the real dangers of knife crime, explain that there are always alternatives to violence, and equip them with the confidence to make safe choices.

“These conversations are vital in helping us prevent crime before it happens.”

In addition to school visits, officers carried out stop and searches where individuals were suspected of carrying knives.

Whilst no knife-related arrests were made during the week, referrals were made, where appropriate, to the Multi-Agency Support Hub (MASH) and words of advice were given.

Other activity included retail engagement, supported by young volunteers from Suffolk Constabulary’s Police Cadets, to ensure compliance with Challenge 25, a policy requiring anyone who appears under 25 to show ID when purchasing age-restricted items, including knives.

Two retailers have been reported to Trading Standards after failing to ask for identification when selling knives.

Inspector Freeman added: “It is disappointing that two retailers failed the Challenge 25 checks.

“Officers will be revisiting the stores to ensure appropriate measures are being taken and we will work closely with the businesses to review their current policies and discuss staff training to ensure they meet their legal responsibilities to help keep our communities safe.

“The public also plays a vital role in helping us tackle knife crime and I would urge anyone who sees or hears something suspicious to speak to us or report it. Together, we can make our streets safer.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “Operation Sceptre gives officers and partners the opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime across the county, and also to tackle the crime with targeted enforcement – I fully support this pro-active approach to tackling knife crime in the county

“It is particularly important we work with schools, parents and carers to highlight the dangers of carrying a knife. We will only make a difference if we work together.

“Talking about the consequences of carrying a knife – both at home and at school – is so important.

“As a parent I know how difficult these conversations can be, but we really do need to join forces to eliminate this dreadful scourge on society.“

“We know not every young person carries a knife but we encourage parents, guardians and extended family members to talk to young members of your family about recognising the signs of knife crime and understanding the consequences.

“I’d also like to put on record my thanks to the Suffolk Police Cadets who volunteered their time to support this critical work.”