Thankfully knife crime in Stone is low, however, the “Ditch the Blade” campaign is focused on encouraging conversations about knife crime, an issue that can be tackled by everyone working together.
Signs you might want to talk to your child about knife crime
- They have become withdrawn from family and school, they’ve changed their behaviour and/or skipping school
- They have lost interest in hobbies and old friends, and now hand around with a new group, staying out late and they’re vague about where they’re going.
- They become secretive and defensive easily, particularly about what’s in their bag and might even have told you that they need to carry a knife.
- You’ve noticed knives are missing from the house or may even have found one in your child’s bag or coat.
These things seem easily explained as part of the difficult teenage years, but it’s still important to talk to them about knife crime.
How to begin a conversation……..
Pick a place and a time where you can comfortably chat together. Ask them if they understand what knife crime is about. Be patient, get them talking, reassure them that they can be honest with you about their fears and worries. You are there to listen and support them
Are you worried about someone carrying a knife?
If you want to make a report about a child carrying a knife please call Staffordshire Police on 101, we may also be able to offer crime prevention advice and guidance.
If you are a parent or carer and you are worried about a child you can seek guidance and support from your local safeguarding team:
Staffordshire County Council’s First Response; 0800 1313 126, or out of hours; 0345 6042886.
Stoke-On-Trent City Council’s Safeguarding Referral Team can be contacted on; 01782 235100, or out of hours; 01782 234234.
