Knife crime remains a significant concern in Bristol, with recent incidents highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
In response, leaders, schools, and organisations are working on innovative measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
Dan Norris, Mayor of the West of England, has announced plans to establish the UK’s first Office of Violence Prevention. Speaking at Empire Fighting Chance, a Bristol-based boxing gym known for its youth engagement, the mayor emphasised the importance of proactive measures.
“The West of England Office of Violence Prevention has the potential to change and save lives. It’s an approach proven by other regions around the world,” he said.
Mr Norris highlighted the collaboration with international organisations like Peace in Our Cities, which has successfully implemented similar initiatives in cities such as Bogota, Durban, and Oakland.
Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody supported this initiative, saying that knife crime cannot be tackled by law enforcement alone. “This is not a policing issue alone and has to include partners working effectively to deliver prevention, intervention, and long-term solutions that tackle root causes of knife crime.”
The devastating personal impact of knife crime was brought to light by Serena Wiebe, a coach at Empire Fighting Chance. Reflecting on the loss of her close friend Eddie Kinuthia to knife violence. She said: “Eddie wasn’t just a friend; he was like a brother. Losing him felt like losing a part of myself.” She described how this tragedy inspired her to join the organisation, where she now mentors young people, providing them with an outlet and helping to address the root causes of violence.
Her dedication extends beyond her coaching role; she has become a campaigner for youth policy and violence prevention, representing the area in discussions with high-profile figures like Idris Elba and Keir Starmer. Her work illustrates the critical role of community organisations in providing support and creating opportunities for young people.
Schools in Bristol are also grappling with the implications of knife crime. A recent incident involving a student from Oasis Brightstowe School prompted swift action from Principal Andrea Davis.
In a letter to parents on November 21 she addressed the situation, which involved a banned item and was circulated on social media. Ms Davis highlighted her zero-tolerance approach, writing: “This is completely unacceptable, and I have a zero-tolerance approach to anything that may risk the safety and well-being of our students and staff.”
To reassure students and parents, the school held assemblies to discuss the steps taken and emphasised the importance of community cooperation in addressing the issue. Davis appealed to parents to prevent further circulation of the incident on social media to support ongoing investigations.
A police spokesperson said: “Police have seized a knife after a teenage child showed it to other children. There were no reported threats or injuries in the incident in north Bristol earlier this month.
Officers were alerted by teachers after they became aware of an incident involving a pupil – although it did not happen on school premises. Police, the school and other partners are working to ensure appropriate safeguarding.”
Solicitor General Sarah Sackman spoke of her commitment to addressing the root causes of violence, saying: “We will work tirelessly to make our communities a safer place for our young people.”