Name: _________________________________________
Date: _________________
Year Group: _________
📊 Key Facts
- Over 49,000 knife offences were recorded in England & Wales in 2024
- 43% of knife crime offenders are under 25 — and the majority are under 20
- 50% of all knife crime victims are under 25
- In 2025, the average custodial sentence for knife possession rose to 8 months
- 30% of knife offence convictions result in immediate imprisonment
- 69% of those cautioned or sentenced are first-time offenders
⚖️ The Law
- Section 139 Criminal Justice Act 1988: maximum 4 years for knife possession without good reason
- Section 1 Prevention of Crime Act 1953: any offensive weapon in public — up to 4 years
- Offensive Weapons Act 2019: extended list of banned weapons including zombie knives and flick knives
- 'Self-defence' is not recognised as a good reason to carry a bladed article
- Schools are designated 'no-knife zones' — possession on school premises is a separate offence
- Sentences are aggravated if carried near schools, on public transport, or in front of children
✏️ Think About It: Scenarios
Scenario 1: A friend tells you something worrying about knife crime. What do you do?
Scenario 2: You see something related to knife crime that concerns you. What are your options?
Scenario 3: Someone you know seems to be in a situation involving knife crime. How do you respond?
💡 Key Messages
- One bad decision can permanently alter the trajectory of your life
- Carrying a knife statistically increases your risk of being stabbed
- The law does not recognise self-defence as a reason to carry a bladed weapon
- A criminal record affects university applications, employment, and international travel
- Peer pressure to carry a knife is a form of exploitation — you have the right to refuse
- Anonymous reporting saves lives — yours and others'
🆘 Need Help?
Childline: 0800 1111 (free, 24/7, confidential)
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (100% anonymous)
CEOP: ceop.police.uk (online exploitation)
Emergency: 999