How Cheshire is tackling knife crime and violence

A CONFERENCE showcasing Cheshire Constabulary’s partnership approach to tackling knife crime has been hailed as ”inspirational”.
Around 150 people attended the Tackling Weapons Conference at Chester Cathedral and learned about ongoing work to make Cheshire a county where no-one wants to, or feels that they need to, carry a weapon.
Visitors also found out about the significant strides that have been made as the force and its partner agencies work together in a bid to make Cheshire knife crime free.
Sarah Heath, the force’s superintendent for tackling weapons and reducing serious harm, said: “The conference was inspirational. There were a range of captivating speakers detailing the considerable ongoing efforts to combat knife crime in the county, and I am pleased to say that we had a fantastic turnout.
“We have a structured approach to tackling knife crime that involves the whole community, as it is a societal problem that the police can’t solve on our own. Every single one of us has a part to play.
“I am pleased to say that we have one of the lowest rates of knife crime in England and Cheshire is one of the few counties in England and Wales that has seen a reduction in the number of knife related offences committed in recent times.
“Our message to young people is that Cheshire is a safe place to live and there is no need for you to carry a weapon to protect yourself. And if you do carry a knife you are far more likely to end up getting seriously injured, or even killed.
“We have found that fear and fashion are the two main reasons that young people carry weapons and that most instances of knife crime occur during the after school period.
“We work alongside various partner agencies – including local authorities, education providers, health authorities, third sector organisations, youth representatives and community groups – to educate young people of the dangers and futility of carrying weapons, steer them away from criminality and offer them attractive alternative ways to spend their time.
“Our partnership approach to combating the complex issues associated with knife crime and habitual weapon carrying in Cheshire is working.”
Warrington-based Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane, who also spoke at the event, said: “The conference represented an ideal opportunity for the people of Cheshire to find out about the considerable amount of work being done by the police and partner agencies to eradicate knife crime in our communities.
“The range of speakers covered all aspects of knife crime and the devastating effects it has on communities.
“The recent killings of 18-year-old Eddie O’Rourke in Runcorn and pub landlord Christian Thornton in Widnes represent ultimate examples of why people shouldn’t carry knives.
“They can turn a minor incident into something far more serious that destroys the lives of everyone involved. “
At the end of the conference a minute’s silence was held in commemoration of all those who have died due to knife crime.
To report any type of crime involving weapons call Cheshire Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.Information can also be passed to the force online via https://www.cheshire.police.uk