Hard Calls Save Lives message as knife crime operation begins
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Calling with information about knife crime may feel hard, but there are harder calls. That's the message behind Operation Sceptre this week - the regular, national campaign to combat knife crime.
The campaign includes hard-hitting videos from mothers who have lost a son to knife crime and talking about the traumatic phone calls they've had to make in the immediate aftermath of their child's death.
Bringing violence down is a critical part of the Constabulary's work and it has dedicated officers going into schools and delivering key messages to pupils, including around the dangers and consequences of carrying a weapon.
And the Fearless initiative run by Crimestoppers and aimed at 11-16 year olds has seen engagement with many young people across the county, increasing awareness of the dangers surrounding street crime, drugs and violence.
The Constabulary knows there are a variety of reasons that individuals choose to carry a knife, or other weapon, including for acceptance among their peers or that they may just be afraid.
By understanding these reasons and continuing to educate young people, it is hoped young people will know it is a crime to carry a knife, but also that the risk of injuring themselves or others is increased as a result.
You can help save a life by calling to report information. Even tiny details can help stop knife crime and keep your community safe.
Please call us on 101 if you have information or fears someone is carrying a knife.
Or you can contact Crimestoppers. Reporting is completely anonymous and you may be eligible for a reward of up to £1000. You can call 0800 555 111 or report information online. More information can be found here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/…/forms/give-information-anony…
If you wish to hand in a knife there are currently knife bins at the following stations: Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Bearland in Gloucester, Hester's Way in Cheltenham, Coleford and Stroud.
Watch the videos and read more information here: https://www.hardcallssavelives.co.uk/