A series of events to help parents and carers learn more about the dangers of knife crime is continuing this February and March.

The Bath & North East Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) is running the events in Radstock, Bath and Cameley to raise awareness of the key issues surrounding knife crime, empowering families to make informed and positive decisions to keep young people safe.

The events, the first of which took place in November 2023, are aimed at parents and carers who would like to know more about the dangers of knife crime or are concerned that their children are at risk.

Those attending will have the opportunity to hear from guest speakers with lived experience who have been personally affected by knife crime. There will also be a presentation by Street Doctors followed by a panel discussion with the opportunity to ask questions.

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, to prevent further violent crimes from occurring in the future. It also 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 more.

Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “Knife violence has to stop. The Partnership is focused on what more can be done to provide education and support to divert young people away from violent crime.

“It’s vital that parents and other family members help influence young people to distance themselves from knife crime and keep them safe. That’s why these events are so important in raising awareness of the dangers and giving parents and carers a chance to hear the first-hand experience of people who have sadly been affected.”

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