Our five-year approach to tackling serious violence

From 24 September, it will be illegal to own zombie-style knives and machetes as they will be added to the list of dangerous items already banned, which also includes Samurai swords, push daggers and butterfly knives - whatever they are. In my opinion, not a moment too soon.

There have been plenty of knife amnesties in the past for people to surrender their weapons safely and without penalty at police stations and other stipulated outlets, and that applies from now until 23 September. After that, anyone caught in possession faces time behind bars. Aside from that, our own five year approach to preventing serious violence was launched at the start of the year, and my office received more than £500k from the Home Office to support the implementation of the Serious Violence Duty that became law on the 31^st January.

Despite some recent shocking cases, where lives have been lost as a result of people carrying knives, Gloucestershire remains a relatively safe place to live. But you can rest assured there is a lot of work going-on to educate young people around the dangers of carrying bladed weapons and becoming involved in gangs. For example, the SkillZONE in Gloucester is an immersive educational venue that takes groups of young people through life choice scenarios.  These highlight the danger and consequences of carrying knives, involvement in gangs and county line drug networks. Similarly, virtual reality headsets are used to place wearers in dangerous scenarios involving knives, gangs and drugs, and help them make the right decision in a safe environment. 

We are also working with St. Giles Trust, a nationally recognised charity mentoring and supporting vulnerable young people who are exposed to crime in their communities. And Music Works, a locally based charity working with young people to show how music can give them support in their lives, especially if they are being drawn towards crime and anti-social behaviour.

Both my office and the Constabulary will continue to work with those I have mentioned as well as other key partners to prevent serious violence across Gloucestershire. And we remain hopeful that the Home Office will continue with grant funding to support our communities in this critical area of work.

The importance of dealing with knife crime has always been a priority for me. The emotional damage it causes is far reaching, not to mention the lasting pain for all personally involved.