Officers touring Sussex with a van to raise awareness of knife crime
It is to teach people about the seriousness of it.
A new specially-designed van is touring Sussex to teach people about the seriousness of knife crime.
The new initiative was launched by police earlier this week (13 October) to help tackle knife crime and raise awareness of the dangers of knife possession.
Officers will be visiting local communities, including schools, high streets and supermarkets, across Sussex with the van to engage, inform and educate people about the serious risks of knife possession.
They will hear real-life stories of people whose lives have been impacted by knife crime and receive information and advice on where they can get help.
It forms part of a wider campaign to combat knife crime after Sussex Police secured additional funding from The Home Office's Serious Violence Fund for 2020/21.
Other tactics include targeted days of action, increased patrols, knife sweeps, test purchasing activities and a multi-agency awareness campaign.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner said carrying a knife can "change your life forever":
"Not only does it put you and those around you at an increased risk of harm, but getting caught with one can result in serious personal and legal consequences.
"We want to help young people make the right choices by educating on the risks of knife possession and helping them get the support they need to live knife free."
Meanwhile Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said the message is clear, "lose the knife, not a life":
"It is vitally important that real-life stories are shared with young people so they can understand the life-changing consequences this could have on them.
"I’m pleased to see Sussex Police being so proactive in their response to serious violence, putting early intervention methods in place to educate and protect our young people from getting caught up in criminality."
Knife amnesty bins are available in police stations across Sussex, where people can safely dispose of knives with no consequences and no questions asked.
Sussex Police said they take any reports of knife crime seriously so the county continues to be a safe place to live.
Anybody who is concerned or has information about knife crime can report online or via 101.
In an emergency always dial 999.