Police & Crime Commissioner for Surrey unveils new knife crime strategy during week of action

Police & Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend joined officers on patrol in Walton, Elmbridge last week as part of Op Sceptre, a national knife crime awareness week.

During the initiative, Lisa launched the knife crime strategy for Surrey. The strategy, which is the work of the Surrey Serious Violence Reduction Partnership, lays out the blueprint for tackling offending in the county.

It will follow the ‘four Es’ – engagement, education, effective intervention and enforcement.

As part of the strategy, police and partners will speak with the public, work with those who legally sell knives to encourage responsible retail and engage with children and young people.

Knife crime rates in Surrey are at around half of the national average. In the year to September 2024, 496 serious knife crime offences were reported, compared to an average of 1,265 nationally.

Research by the Youth Endowment Fund shows that most of those who carry blades are male and aged between 11 and 20. Many are motivated by peer pressure or a fear of knife crime.

However, those who carry a knife are more likely to become a victim of knife crime than those who don’t.

The Commissioner said: “One life lost to knife crime is one life too many.

“Surrey remains one of the safest places to live in the country.

“But this type of offending is still ruining lives, and we cannot afford to be complacent. Any crime involving a knife or blade can have the gravest of consequences.

“Those who carry knives are often under the dangerous misconception that by doing so, they are better-protected.

“However, evidence suggests they are actually more likely to become a victim of knife crime.

“A knife can turn what was simply a minor disagreement into something far more frightening, serious, and even life-threatening.

“During my visits to Surrey schools, I have become aware of the real fear young people have of knife crime – a perception created partly through social media.

“This constant exposure to weapons can have a real impact, and part of Op Sceptre, and of the new strategy, is to work with children and young people to help them understand the reality of the situation in Surrey.

“During my shift on patrol in Elmbridge, the team made unannounced visits to those who are known to be carrying knives regularly, patrolled busy areas in the town centre, and used ‘spotters’ to flag signs of suspicious behaviour.

“PCSOs also travelled on trains throughout the borough to speak with passengers, and I thank the British Transport Police for their support.

“Work like this is crucial in reassuring communities and educating those who are tempted to carry a knife.

“If you are aware of someone who carries a blade, I would urge you to report it to Surrey Police, or – if you would prefer to remain anonymous – to Crimestoppers.

“We must all work together to keep the county safe.”