A week of action by police forces in the region to tackle knife crime has been launched.

Officers will be educating young people about the dangers of knives while Trading Standards teams ensure retailers are following the correct policies around the sale of sharp objects.

Police will also be executing warrants and working at transport hubs across the region to seize harmful weapons.

Chief Superintendent Joanne Park-Simmons, Northumbria Police’s knife crime lead, outlined the week of action and also explained how the wider public can get involved.

She said: “As a force, we sadly know all too well the utter devastation that knife crime can cause, not only to the victims and their families but also the loved ones and friends of those who carry out such violence.

“We are under no illusions of the work that is required to combat knife crime, and each and every day our officers are tasked to target those individuals who cause harm in our communities.

“Operation Sceptre is a great opportunity for us to carry out enhanced activity in this area, targeting offenders, getting weapons out of circulation and educating young people on why they should under no circumstances be carrying knives.”

The Northern Echo launched a campaign to tackle knife crime following the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Jack Woodley from Newton Aycliffe in October 2021.

The newspaper launched the North East Knife Crime Taskforce last year to bring together organisations working across the region to tackle the problem.

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Chief Supt Park-Simmons added: “If you do have concerns about someone in possession of a knife, don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can take the appropriate action or alternatively get in touch with Crimestoppers.

“And we’d urge parents and carers to have those difficult conversations with youngsters about the huge dangers of carrying knives.

“Together, we can keep our region safe and further reduce knife crime incidents in our communities.”

Surrender bins are now at the following stations:

  • Bedlington and Hexham stations in Northumberland
  • Middle Engine Lane in Wallsend
  • Forth Banks and Etal Lane in Newcastle
  • Gateshead
  • Millbank in South Shields 
  • Southwick in Sunderland
  • Middlesbrough
  • Redcar
  • Stockton
  • Hartlepool

The bins will remain in place until Sunday.

The Northern Echo:

Acting Inspector Sarah Beadle, who is leading on the week of action for Cleveland Police, said: “Everyday police officers see first-hand the devastating effects of carrying bladed weapons.

"It is particularly concerning to see young people involved and hurt in these crimes, but we will do all we can to engage, educate and encourage them not to carry a knife.

“It isn’t normal behaviour, very few young people do carry a knife, but with numbers rising on Teesside we want to ensure that there is help and guidance for anyone who needs it.”