As part of its continued work to tackle knife crime and youth violence in Barking and Dagenham, the east London council is marking Knife Crime Awareness Week.
Taking place from Monday 19 May to Sunday 25 May, the initiative, which was started by the Ben Kinsella Trust, highlights the complexity of the knife crime problem across the country, the devastation that it causes to families and communities and ultimately that knife crime is preventable.
In collaboration with the West Ham United Foundation, the council, led by the Community Safety Partnership, hosted a football tournament on Tuesday 20 May at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Dagenham, bringing together Year 10 students from eight local schools.
Alongside the tournament, students heard from a range of inspiring guest speakers including guest speakers including Stephen Addison, Founder of Box Up Crime, Patrick Green, CEO of Ben Kinsella Trust, Inspector Carroll Weeden, Arran Johny (West Ham United Foundation), Nana Aggrey and Lauric Diakiesse, manager director of the PAT project and Ethan Bell, Director of Be Heard as One.
As well as receiving a free meal, each young person who took part received a medal and the winners, Riverside School, were awarded with a Trophy.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “Knife crime is a serious issue across London, and it’s vital that we continue to engage with young people in meaningful ways. Events like this tournament not only raise awareness but also show our young people that there are positive alternatives and support available.”
Joseph Lyons, West Ham United Foundation CEO, said: “We are proud of the strong, trusted relationships we’ve built across our communities. These connections allow us to uniquely reach young people and work closely with the council, schools and local services to help address violence and exploitation.
“This tournament is part of that broader mission, using the power of West Ham United and football to create safe spaces, build confidence and show young people the positive opportunities and pathways available to them.”
Patrick Green, CEO of Ben Kinsella Trust said: “Knife Crime Awareness Week has a clear message: knife crime is preventable. The campaign shines a light on the collective efforts of individuals and organisations who are making a big difference.
“This event in Barking and Dagenham shows the power of communities coming together— through sport, conversation and positive role models — to help prevent violence before it starts.”
In Barking and Dagenham, there are a huge range of activities and opportunities available for young people to get involved in and the full list can find out about them on the council website.
For more information on Knife Crime Awareness Week, head to: www.knifecrimeawarenessweek.org.uk