**More than 80,000 knives off streets

In recent efforts to combat knife crime, new statistics reveal that over 80,000 knives and dangerous weapons have been taken off the streets across Britain since the General Election. This remarkable figure, averaging around 100 weapons removed each day, has coincided with a 24% decline in knife-enabled robbery across seven of the most affected police forces.

The substantial haul of weapons has resulted from a combination of initiatives including Home Office surrender campaigns, police and Border Force seizures, and focused actions in areas particularly susceptible to knife crime. Notably, figures from August show a monthly total of 3,811 knives surrendered. Of these, 3,049 were deposited at the Home Office-funded ‘Word 4 Weapons’ bins and 762 were collected by the ‘FazAmnesty’ mobile van. In Yorkshire alone, the introduction of eight new static bins led to the collection of 583 weapons during the same month.

Since June 2024, knife-enabled robbery offences fell by 24% in key areas, including Metropolitan Police, Greater Manchester, and West Midlands, among others. Authorities have collaborated through the Home Office-led Knife Enabled Robbery Group to strategically share intelligence, aiming to target offenders and high-risk locations effectively.

Overall, England and Wales have seen a reduction of 11% in knife crime since the General Election, which translates to almost 6,000 fewer incidents. Knife homicides have reached a historic low not seen in 35 years, while the number of hospital admissions due to sharp object assaults decreased by 16%, with a notable 19% drop for individuals under 25.

Policing and Crime Minister Sarah Jones stated, “No parent should have to fear that their child will leave home carrying a knife.” She added that the government is committed to safeguarding communities through targeted efforts aimed at enforcement, intervention, and prevention. Jones expressed confidence in the power of these initiatives but affirmed that work must continue until the goal of halving knife crime is achieved.

Sandra Campbell, CEO of Word 4 Weapons, commented that the removal of over 3,000 weapons in August illustrates how communities engage with disposal opportunities designed for safety. She emphasised the importance of each weapon removed as contributing to public safety.

Faron Paul, CEO of FazAmnesty, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Every weapon surrendered is one less that could destroy a life, a family or a community.” The mobile van operated by FazAmnesty has brought a safe surrender option to communities, fostering greater trust and encouraging participation.

The government remains dedicated to its £26.25 million Knife Crime Concentrations Fund, targeting more than 230 locations known for knife crime with tailored action plans. This includes additional patrols, enhanced CCTV, and initiatives aimed at vulnerable young people inclined towards violence. A new communication campaign titled ‘No Place for Knives’ is also underway in cities like Birmingham and Westminster, promoting visible enforcement measures to raise public awareness.

Commander Stephen Clayman, head of the National Knife Crime Centre, cautioned against complacency. He insists that collaborative efforts are essential for continued progress in reducing knife-related crime. The centre is working steadfastly to disrupt illegal weapon sales online and coordinate enforcement actions nationwide.

Pooja Kanda OBE, whose son Ronan was tragically killed in an incident involving a knife, acknowledged the significance of each knife removed. She mentioned the continuous efforts she supports alongside government initiatives aimed at strict retailer licensing and enhanced accountability.

As the government strives to halve knife crime within a decade, efforts will include strong enforcement alongside prevention strategies to deter individuals from engaging with knife crime initially. This multifaceted approach aims to safeguard future generations and foster safer communities across the nation.