University of Bristol begins anti knife-crime project

Researchers are looking at anti-knife crime policies used around the world and, crucially, whether they've worked

The leader of Bristol City Council says tackling knife crime is an "urgent priority"
Author: James DiamondPublished 23rd Jul 2024

Researchers from the University of Bristol are beginning a review of global efforts to prevent knife crime.

It's hoped collecting evidence of what does and does not work will help officials tackle the problem here in the West Country.

The news comes less than a week after the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police revealed 15 people have lost their lives in knife crime incidents across the force area, in the 12 months to July.

The team consists of experts across criminology, sociology, politics, policy, medicine, and law and will use its findings to generate key recommendations for what should be done to reduce serious youth violence.

Dr Jade Levell, Senior Lecturer in Social and Public Policy at the University’s School for Policy Studies, who is leading the review, said: “Experiencing violence in childhood is tragic for all involved; for young people directly impacted; their families; wider peer groups; and for the whole community.

“Violence is not inevitable, and we need to find ways to effectively reach our vulnerable and often marginalised young people.

"With a team working collaboratively across diverse academic disciplines within the University we aim to enhance understanding of what matters to young people, the challenges they face, and support the city’s work through research and evidence-based recommendations.”

A university press release announcing the review says Dr Levell has published three books on these issues and the research team encompasses expertise in international and community conflict, peace building, gender-based violence, urban youth culture, policing practice and policy, as well as stab-wound emergency hospital care.

They will be engaging with young people directly affected by violence, as earlier this year former Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees called on academics to use their "intellectual firepower" to tackle knife crime.

Under the new administration, Cllr Tony Dyer, the new Leader of Bristol City Council has reaffirmed his commitment to address this critical issue.

Christina Gray, Director for Communities and Public Health at Bristol City Council, said: “This is excellent news and will enable the city to benefit from the academic expertise of the University of Bristol alongside our city’s experts and other partners across the region, through our One City approach."

Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “Tackling knife crime is an urgent priority, and one that demands that we use the full range of resources available to us as a city.

"A multi-agency approach is vital and the rapid review to gather evidence and best practice from across the globe, initiated by the University of Bristol, is very welcome.

"Their research will play an important role in our continuing efforts to protect our city’s young people.”

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.