Information published by the Youth Justice Board (YJB) share its Knife Crime Insights Pack which highlight the significance of early intervention, targeted prevention and diversion programs play in reducing knife crime committed by children.

The YJB Annual Statistics outline the prevalence of knife crime in the UK in the year ending March 2024. There were just over 3,200 knife or offensive weapon offences committed by children resulting in a caution or sentence. Identifying possession of a knife as the most common knife crime offence committed by children; more than 99% of convictions are for possession alone.

Current evidence suggests that knife crime is driven by a combination of poverty, marginalisation, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma, fear and victimisation, including exploitation. Demonstrating an overlap between victims and those who use knives.

There are varied and complex reasons that children possess knives. But we know knife crime is more prevalent in neighbourhoods where there is deprivation, social exclusion, increased crime and violence, and in families where factors such as neglect and abuse are present.

Raising awareness of knife crime highlighting its harms can be beneficial and generate engagement when integrated with PSHE education aimed at improving understanding, support for community safety and healthy choices rather than deterrence.

Use the YJB Knife Crime Insight Pack to learn about their findings and recommendations.

Resources

20250211 - Knife Crime Evidence and Insights Pack Letter

Download (96KB - PDF)

Knife_Crime_Evidence_Insights_Feb25

Download (417KB - PDF)

YJB_Press_Release_Knife_Crime

Download (116KB - PDF)

 

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