Carrying knives is an increasing problem in society, with young people feeling the need to have to be armed with a knife. In Sandwell like other parts of the country we have been blighted by the increase in knife crime. The West Midlands reported the highest rate of knife-related offences, with 180 incidents per 100,000 people.

Why do young people carry knives?

It appears that most young men who carry knives are aged between 12-25 and they carry because they don’t feel safe. Young people also carry because of peer pressure and not having a full understanding of the legalities and dangers of carrying a knife. They may carry because of places they go or the people they hang out with. Other reasons, which are not exhaustive:

• They fear being a victim of knife crime – this could be because of a specific threat or perception.

• They carry it “just in case”- so self defence.

• People tell them to carry it to earn respect.

• To intimidate or they are involved in criminal activity.

Dangers

Whatever the reasons the UK statistics show that not only is the person carrying a knife more likely to be hospitalised with an injury caused by violence but they can get in trouble with the law.

The biggest concern and risk is that if a young person carries a knife they will almost definitely use it in situations where they feel the need to protect themselves, commit a crime, cause fear or reinforce their status/reputation.

Worried your child may carry a knife

The following sites give parents excellent advice on how to start a conversation about this and is worth spending a moment reading if you have any thought that your child maybe carrying a knife – https://benkinsella.org.uk/resources-for-parents/

Knife-Harm.pdf

If you have information about knife crime in your area and you’re nervous about going to the police, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They will never ask for your name or try to trace the number that you’re calling from.

If you prefer reach out to one of the DSLs at the school – Miss Donaghie or Mrs Wood.

DON’T sit and wit – speak out, reach out and help children keep safe.