Showcase Magazine Summer 2025 - Flipbook - Page 7
SAFEGUARDING
Designated Safeguarding Officer:
Ellen Roberts
07715 658036
KNIFE CRIME
Understanding knife crime in the UK:
Awareness, Safety & Essential First Aid
Knife crime is a serious and growing concern across the
UK, particularly in cities and among young people.
Tackling it requires not only strong policing and policy, but
also education, community support, and awareness of
safety and emergency response.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recorded around
49,489 knife-related offences in England and Wales in the
year to March 2023; London had the highest numbers,
though cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool
also saw high rates. Teenagers and young adults aged 15
to 24 are most affected, both as victims and offenders, and
knives are known to be used in about 38% of homicides.
Thousands of under-25s are treated in hospital for stab
injuries each year.
Several factors contribute to rising knife crime such as
gang activity and territorial disputes. Social media
arguments can spill into real-life violence, and peer
pressure and fear drive some young people to carry knives
for perceived protection. Poverty, exclusion, and a lack of
opportunity also raise risks, worsened by cuts to youth
services and preventative support, are also factors.
DIAL 999
&
Keep
yourself
safe
Control bleeding by
applying direct
pressure to the
wound with clean
cloth or clothing. If a
knife or object is still
embedded in the
wound, do not
remove it.
Keep the person
calm and still as
movement can
increase blood flow.
Help them to lie flat
if this is safe and
comfortable. Keep
reassuring them
help is on the way.
Prevent shock by
covering them with
a blanket or
something warm
like a coat. Raise
their legs slightly if
you suspect a head,
back, or leg injury use a rolled up coat.
Monitor breathing
and consciousness be prepared to
perform CPR if they
stop breathing. The
999 call handler will
help you, especially
if you can’t find a
defibrillator.
｜
Showcase Training 7
