Knife carrying can be seen as the “norm” in some communities, and some people carry knives because they think “everyone else is”, but this is not the case.

Over the last two years, Greenwich has seen an increase in knife-related offences, and this is having devastating effects on communities of all ages.  

Studies suggest that a lot of knife-carrying is driven by fear and wanting to protect yourself from others who may also be carrying a knife. Self-defence or self-protection are not valid reasons for carrying a knife or offensive weapon, and this choice could have serious consequences for that person.  

If you carry a knife, you put yourself and everyone around you in danger.  

Understand the consequences:

• Carrying a knife is illegal.  
• Carrying a knife increases your risk of being injured.  
• It also increases the risk of people around you being injured and can cause great distress and upset to your family.  
• Police are allowed to stop and search someone if they believe a weapon is being carried.  
• Having a criminal record could stop you entering college or university, getting a job and could place restrictions on you travelling to some countries like the United States of America.  
• You could go to prison for up to four years if you are found in possession of a knife, even if you are carrying it for someone else.  

 Did you know?

• Individuals ages 14 to 36 years are more likely to carry a knife
• 99% of young people do not carry knives
• If you are found carrying a knife, you can spend up to four years in prison
• You can report knife crime or information about knife crime anonymously
• Certain types of knives are completely banned in the UK, even if you keep them in your home. These include butterfly knives, zombie knives, disguised knives, and flick knives 
• Any sharp object with the intent of using it in a threatening manner could be classed as an offensive weapon
• Police have the power to stop and search any person if they have 'reasonable grounds' to suspect that person may be carrying something that is against the law or could cause harm to others. This could include: illegal drugs, a knife or weapon, stolen items or an item that could be used to commit a crime. 
• Self-defence or self-protection are not valid reasons for carrying a knife or offensive weapon, and this choice could have serious consequences for that person, including serious or fatal injury to themselves or others, and a criminal record.