Violence Reduction Unit: “We aren’t here to judge- we’re here to get people on the right path”

Of all recorded homicides in the year ending June 2022, the proportion of homicides where a knife or sharp instrument was the method of killing was 38%. (https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/crimeinenglandandwales/yearendingjune2022)

Yvonne from the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) came to speak with the learners about knife crime. Her message was very straightforward:

“Please don’t carry a knife. If there is trouble in the community, tell someone. You can disclose information anonymously. It isn’t ‘grassing’ - you are saving a life.”

With their futures ahead of them, Yvonne explained to the learners how carrying a knife not only jeopardises your safety, it can damage your chances of finding a job. If you have carried a knife, it will stay on your record.