Blunt Truth: Knife crime education sessions delivered in Weston school

Students in Weston-super-Mare have been taking part in a groundbreaking initiative teaching them about the possible consequences of carrying a knife and what to do if a friend or family member is stabbed.

Nearly 150 Year Nine students from Winterstoke Hundred Academy attended a presentation which is part-funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and involving members of the Police, Avon Fire and Rescue, North Somerset Council and medics/surgeons from the Army.

Blunt Truth is a comprehensive hour-long workshop which aims to encourage young people to report through their school, the police or through FEARLESS (youth arm of Crimestoppers) if someone they know is carrying a knife.

Students were shown a thought-provoking film highlighting the different outcomes of either reporting someone they know to be carrying a knife or the potential tragic consequences if they don’t. After, the police engaged in discussions with students, offering insight into situations they might encounter and providing guidance on who to approach if they are concerned about friends or family members.

Students also received first aid training for victims of knife wounds, learned about the type of harm stab wounds to different parts of the body can cause and were instructed on the signs to look out for if a person has been stabbed.

Agnes, a Year 9 pupil at Winterstoke Hundred, said: “When you hear about knife crime it can be very worrying, but because there are so many different organisations that will support you and help you, it is not as scary, and they will always be there to help you if you need to speak to anyone.”

Sarah-Jayne Evans, Teacher of PSHE & Business and organiser of the event, said: “We are grateful to our colleagues in the police, fire service, council and army for giving up their time to support our young people in developing their understanding of the detrimental effects of knife crime and to teach them vital first aid skills in order to support us to keep our community safe.

“At Winterstoke Hundred, we value the importance of our students’ personal development curriculum and this event further supports their understanding of topical issues that educate our young people.”