An Essex Mum's journey to bring the Knife Angel to Harlow
Melanie Hopwood set up the Tommy Jones project in memory of her son who was stabbed in 2006
Melanie Hopwood, a mother who lost her son Tommy Jones to a knife attack in September 2006, says she's determined to change the lives of victims and bereaved families; by bringing the Knife Angel sculpture to Harlow. The project, which she's been tirelessly advocating for, aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of knife crime and violence.
"I've campaigned and raised awareness for the last 16 years."
Melanie told us that her involvement had fluctuated over the years, encompassing various activities such as marches and music events. However, her focus sharpened when she aspired to bring the National Monument against violence and aggression, known as the Knife Angel, to Harlow.
"The Knife Angel is a powerful symbol that evokes a range of emotions," she emphasized. Describing her hope for its impact, she stated, "It's to help raise awareness and try to change the mindsets of people... showing them all these victims around the country that have been killed by a knife and violent crime."
She firmly believes that by fostering empathy and understanding through the presence of the Knife Angel, the project can steer individuals away from violence and crime, potentially saving lives in the process.
Beyond the Knife Angel campaign, Hopwood has embarked on an even more ambitious endeavour. She's working on the Tommy Jones project, which includes a program called "split seconds." This initiative involves sharing videos from parents and siblings of victims, as well as influencers, to reach out to youth and encourage them to choose a different, non-violent path. Melanie stated, "It's a mindset-changing program to change the mindset of people who are in gangs or who just want to be violent and carry weapons."
Reflecting on the challenges faced by families affected by knife crime, she said: "When someone gets killed, you only get a certain amount of support for a certain length of time." She pointed out the long-lasting trauma and profound impact on families, often leading to mental health struggles and other difficulties. Through the Tommy Jones project, she aims to provide ongoing support and guidance to families, helping them navigate their grief and trauma.
Melanie has been working tirelessly for 20 months to bring the Knife Angel to Harlow. From 1st September until 30th September 2023, the Playhouse Square in Harlow will serve as the temporary home for The Knife Angel, providing residents and visitors alike an opportunity to engage with the symbol of 'peace and hope'. The event will kick off with an opening ceremony on 1st September at 6pm, and a closing ceremony is scheduled for 30th September at 6 pm.