“Joint effort vital in tackling this ever-growing concern.”

Policing’s national week of action (13-19 May 2024), Sceptre, has shown positive results and progress in the ever-changing and growing fight against knife crime with forces across England and Wales undertaking a range of activities in local communities.

13,929 knives (12,106 in November 2023 Sceptre) have been seized through enforcement action and surrender bins, while 3,128 visits to engage with young people and their parents have been undertaken.

Commander Stephen Clayman is National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for knife crime. He said:

“We are clear that there is no one solution to tackling knife crime – there never has been nor will there be and in policing we must undertake the activities that add the most value and make the most difference.

“We rightly lead on enforcement and as always during Sceptre week we have a focus on knife seizures and arrests, but we also add significant value in our role working with communities and supporting partners.

“Knife crime is an incredibly complex problem where many of those who carry knives often find themselves being both the victim and the perpetrator. Evidence shows knives are often carried for protection so we need to understand what the drivers for this are and how we can help make people and communities safer.

“Limiting supply and accessibility to knives is a key aspect of our national work and on Friday (17 May 2024) we hosted a meeting with knife crime retailers and specialists to discuss potential approaches to tackling the supply of certain types of knives. Possible solutions included improving age verification at point of sale and delivery, alongside looking at what a registration or voluntary code of practice could look like. I was greatly encouraged by the support of the retailers in attendance and the appetite for change.

“Sceptre has seen so much fantastic work from police forces across England and Wales, undertaking enforcement action and engagement activity, which combined with our national workstream activity, demonstrates positive momentum building in our fight against knife crime. It is truly a team effort.”