Week of action underway as part of our ongoing work to tackle knife crime

Merseyside Police re one of a number forces across the UK who will be taking part in the week-long operation, which runs until Sunday 23 September, and which aims to highlight the work regularly being done across Merseyside, and nationally, to combat the issue of knife crime.

Additional action will include crime reduction messaging, a social media campaign targeting teenagers and young people, test purchasing in shops and diversionary educational activities run by local community groups.

Community teams will deliver talks at local schools and patrols will link in with door staff and licensed premises involved in the night-time economy in town centres across Merseyside. Members of the public can also expect to see increased police activity and police presence in key areas.

Community Policing Inspector Andy Creer said: “We know that knife crime is of concern to the people of Merseyside and I want to reassure our communities that we are committed to reducing knife crime and educating people about the dangers and consequences of carrying knives.

“The work we do to tackle this important issue takes place on a daily basis but by taking part in this national week of action means the work we are doing is more visible and gives us the opportunity to show the importance of what we are trying to achieve alongside our partners and our communities.

“Violent crime – including knife crime – does have devastating consequences for the victim and their families and we have sadly seen at first hand the impact it has had on families across Merseyside – including the families of those who have died or those who have been convicted and jailed for knife crime offences.

“Merseyside has a great reputation for being a safe city to visit and we want that to continue and for the people who live, work or visit here, to enjoy their time in a safe environment.

“Our officers work extensively within schools across Merseyside to educate young people about the dangers of becoming involved in knife crime and the impact it has on the community. But we cannot do this alone and we want parents, guardians and schools to help reinforce our message to young people – if you are caught carrying a knife, you are reducing your future prospects.

“We would also urge people to think before they consider carrying a knife. There is never a good reason to carry one. Many of those who do carry knives say initially they carried them for their own protection. Evidence shows that those who carry knives for their own protection are more likely to become a victim as a result and the knife can be turned on them.

“If you know somebody who is carrying a knife when they go out I would urge you to come forward and tell us. We will act on all information reported to us. Anyone with information can DM @MerPolCC, call 101 or contact Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

• Merseyside Police will be updating its social media accounts including Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram throughout the week of action using the hashtag #NoMoreKnives and #StopKnifeCrime
• For advice and information about knife crime go to: /advice-and-protection/crimes-against-people/knife-crime/