Children as young as 11 carrying knives
A new report published by Ofsted, Care Quality Commission, HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire Rescue Services and HM Inspectorate of Probation has found that 'serious youth violence is more far-reaching than many adults realise'.
The report reveals that children, including some as young as 11yrs, are carrying knives because they feel unsafe in their neighbourhoods.
The fear of knife crime among children
The findings are based on a series of inspections carried out in Manchester, Leeds, Lancashire, Coventry, Merton and Somerset which recorded both parent and children’s experiences and views. Reflecting on the data gathered, the report states that 'The fear of knife crime among children is evident’ and that ‘Inspectors were alarmed at how many children and professionals told them that it is common for children to carry a knife.'
As highlighted in previous SSS Learning articles, knife crime and gang related exploitation involving knives has been a growing concern in the UK. Whilst there has been much debate on how to tackle this growing problem, what is clear from this new report is just how embedded serious youth violence is, described in the report as ‘widespread’.
Risk Factors for Children with SEND
As safeguarding professionals, we know that children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) overall are disproportionately at risk compared to their peers, and this is further reflected in the report’s findings. The findings show that serious violence disproportionately affects children and young people with SEND, 'particularly those who might be considered neurodivergent.'
Positive Activities and Support for Young People
Whilst investing in community interventions and programmes, such as Operation Sceptre, provide safe spaces, positive activities and support for young people, addressing this complex issue will require a multi-faceted approach of:
- Early Intervention: Providing early intervention services to identify and support children at risk of involvement in violence;
- Education and Awareness: Training staff to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime and the consequences of carrying a knife;
- Tackling Root Causes: Addressing the underlying social and economic issues that contribute to youth violence;
- Policing and Law Enforcement: Effective policing strategies to deter knife crime and apprehend offenders.
As the report highlights, effective work to reduce harm ‘is not happening in all areas’ and there is a need for a more consistent and effective national approach to address fears and reverse the worrying attitudes to carrying knives. As the findings show, there is no single solution. A collaborative effort involving families, communities, schools, and HM Government is needed to address this problem and create a safer environment for young people and communities.
SSS Learning Safeguarding Director
