Name: _________________________________________
Date: _________________
📊 The Reality
- Over 49,000 knife offences happen each year in England & Wales
- 43% of people convicted of knife crimes are under 25
- 50% of victims are under 25
- If you carry a knife, you are MORE likely to be injured or killed
❌ Myth vs ✅ Fact
❌ MYTH
"Carrying a knife keeps me safe"
✅ FACT
You're MORE likely to be injured if you carry a knife - it can be used against you
❌ MYTH
"I'll only use it for self-defence"
✅ FACT
Self-defence is not a legal excuse. You will be arrested and charged.
❌ MYTH
"Everyone carries a knife"
✅ FACT
Less than 1% of young people carry weapons. Most people never will.
⚖️ The Law
It is ILLEGAL to:
- Carry a knife in public without good reason
- Carry ANY knife on school grounds
- Threaten someone with a knife
Consequences:
- Up to 4 years in prison for carrying a knife
- Life imprisonment for using a knife to cause injury
- A criminal record that affects jobs, university, and travel
✏️ Activity: What Would You Do?
Scenario 1: A friend shows you a knife they've started carrying "for protection." What do you do?
Scenario 2: You're walking home and see a group ahead that makes you nervous. What are your options?
Scenario 3: Someone you know hints that you should carry something "just in case." How do you respond?
🛡️ Staying Safe Without a Knife
- Plan your route - stick to well-lit, busy areas
- Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back
- Walk away from confrontation - it takes courage, not weakness
- Stay aware - don't have headphones in or be distracted
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, leave
- Talk to someone if you feel unsafe or pressured
💡 Key Messages
- Carrying a knife makes you LESS safe, not more
- Walking away takes more courage than fighting
- One moment can change your life forever
- You can report concerns anonymously
- Help is available if you feel unsafe
🆘 Need Help?
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (100% anonymous)
Fearless: fearless.org (youth anonymous reporting)
Childline: 0800 1111
Emergency: 999