How to prevent knife crime: lessons from Scotland
Edinburgh, Amber Davenport
If you thought that Scotland was like the film Trainspotting, in fact knife crime has dropped massively compared to England. A few years back, Scotland’s streets were dangerous. But today they have few stabbings, compared to an increase of 80% in England in 2024.
How did Scotland do this? By replicating what Norway does: developing good relationships between the police and residents/communities, regular education and knife amnesties.
Carrying a knife is against the law
With certain exemptions, to carry any pointed or bladed item in a public place is illegal. Under ‘joint enterprise laws’, you can also be prosecuted along with the stabber, if you are in the same group when the crime occurs.
Carrying a knife also makes you more likely to become a crime victim, not safer. A stab anywhere on the body can be fatal (not just the chest).
Free help to reduce knife crime
- Let’s Be Blunt is a campaign for people to buy rounded knives. It was founded by the yoga teacher who was injured, trying to protect the children in the Southport knife attacks, a couple of years ago.
- Steel Warriors is a London charity that melts down knives taken off the streets, then turns the steel into free ‘street outdoor gyms.
Give (anonymous) information on knife crime
Report (any) crime anonymously via Crimestoppers. You can also give info to Fearless (including info on planned crimes/fights – the site has a quick close tab and no ID info is taken).
