HARD-HITTING workshops have been organised in schools and alternative provisions across Tameside to spread an anti-knife crime message.
The sessions, organised by Tameside Council’s Community Safety Service through the Serious Violence Fund, are led by the JJ Effect dedicated anti-knife founder Byron Highton, who lost his 18-year-old brother Jon-Jo to the crime.
They aim to help educate young people about the devastating, real-life impact of carrying blades. The sessions also highlight that knife crime is not limited to the use of a knife – carrying a blade is also illegal and can lead to heavy penalties.
The sessions are running from 10 November as part of Operation Sceptre, the national campaign to tackle knife crime.
Tameside Council Executive Member responsible for Community Safety Cllr Allison Gwynne said: “Knife crime can affect anyone – not just people in gangs. The sessions are a really powerful and personal way of opening young people’s eyes to the dangers of carrying knives and blades and the devastating consequences it can lead to – not just for individuals but for families and the wider community.”
If you have concerns about someone you know or care about who is carrying or hiding a knife, or if you are aware that knives are being concealed in your community, call the Police on 101 or talk to us via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency.