PARENTS and carers who are concerned about the risks of knife crime are invited to join an awareness event in the Chew Valley this winter.

The Bath & North East Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) has announced three additional dates in its series of knife crime awareness events which aim to empower families to make informed decisions to keep their children safe.

Each session will hear from a guest speaker with lived experience who has been personally affected by knife crime, followed by a panel discussion with the opportunity to ask questions.

There will be an opportunity to hear about the support available for children and families in B&NES and view a partnership film on county lines at upcoming events. Chew Valley School will host the event on Monday, February 10.

Tickets can be booked via the Eventbrite links.

Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It’s more important now than ever that our children and young people know the devastating effects that knife crime and violence can have. Preventing knife crime is not just about enforcement, it's about education, community support and greater awareness of the issues for everyone. These events will provide families with the information they need to help young people make better decisions.”

Avon and Somerset Police have made significant efforts to combat knife crime by installing more knife surrender bins in key locations like Castle Park and the Park Centre in Bristol. These bins provide a simple and anonymous way for people to safely dispose of knives and weapons. Since their introduction, more than 5,000 knives have been handed in, including 175 in the last year alone.

The police are also rolling out life-saving emergency bleed kits and working with local partners on education and diversion programs to help prevent knife crime.

The VRP is a multi-agency partnership that aims to prevent and reduce violence in the area. It works to understand and address the root causes of violence and to prevent further violent crimes from occurring in the future. It provides resources and supports the work of professionals and community groups who help children at risk or involved in serious violence.

It is made up of representatives from Bath & North East Somerset Council, Avon and Somerset Police, DHI Project 28, Youth Connect Southwest, NHS and others.

Any questions about the events can be emailed to: [email protected]