Raising awareness of knife crime remains a key priority for Barking and Dagenham Council. To mark Knife Crime Awareness Week, the council brought together secondary schools from across the borough for an engaging and informative event.
Organised by the council’s Community Safety Partnership, the event saw Year 8 pupils from nine schools take part in a closely contested football tournament, followed by presentations and speeches.
The event took place on Tuesday 19 May at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Parsloes Park, Dagenham. For the second year running, Riverside Secondary School were crowned overall winners after a penalty shoot-out against Eastbury Secondary School.
All participants received medals and a free lunch, alongside special awards for best player (per team), top goal scorer and goal of the tournament.
Following the tournament, students heard from a range of inspiring speakers, including Cllr Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Nathan Singleton, CEO of LifeLine, and Sgt Matthew Parish from the Metropolitan Police.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said:
“Knife crime continues to impact communities across London, which is why engaging young people is so important. Events like this tournament not only build awareness but also highlight the positive paths and support available to them.”
Knife Crime Awareness Week was launched by the Ben Kinsella Trust, and Patrick Green, CEO of the Ben Kinsella Trust said “Knife Crime Awareness Week is a crucial moment for all of us to come together and recognise that prevention starts with opportunity. It also brings together the police, Barking and Dagenham Council, and frontline organisations to showcase the vital work happening day in, day out to keep young people safe.
“Too many young people feel their choices are limited, but when we invest in meaningful, positive activities, such as this football tournament, we show them a different path. Whether through sport, creativity, education, or community programmes, these opportunities allow young people to discover their talents, build confidence, and see a future full of possibility.”
Chief Inspector Mo Mahmood, from the Metropolitan Police in Barking and Dagenham said: “Knife crime has devastating consequences for individuals, families, and our communities. That’s why prevention and early engagement with young people is absolutely vital. Events like this bring together schools, partners, and police to have honest conversations, build trust, and show young people the positive opportunities available to them.
“We are committed to working alongside our partners in Barking and Dagenham to reduce violence and keep our communities safe, and I’m encouraged to see so many young people taking part in such a positive and empowering event.”
In Barking and Dagenham, there is a wide range of activities and opportunities available for young people to get involved in. Find out more on the council website.
For more information about Knife Crime Awareness Week, visit:
www.knifecrimeawarenessweek.org.uk.