Funding for knife crime reduction projects

Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey wants knife crime to fall further

Projects to prevent knife crime have been invited to bid for new funding.

The recently elected Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey wants more young people educated to steer clear of violence.

Community groups are invited to apply for a share of £40,000 for their own projects, or to deliver a special awareness session.

Mr Storey said: "Knife crime has a ripple effect that impacts not only those immediately involved in the incident, but their family, friends and the wider community."

The Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV) was set up in 2022 to research the causes of violent crime and develop strategies in its prevention.

CURV will award grants of up to £9,999 for knife crime reduction activities for young people aged 10-18 years.

There is also a bespoke knife crime awareness session at Hartlepool’s ‘Crucial Crew’ event.

Education is 'key'

In the 12 months to March 2024, Cleveland Police recorded 794 knife crimes, a reduction of 12% on the previous year.

Reports of 14 to 24 year-olds involved in knife incidents have also reduced by more than 20% over the same period.

Mr Storey launched the fund during Knife Crime Awareness Week in the hope of building on these reductions.

He said: "I fully believe that the key to reducing knife crime is educating young people about the dangers, consequences and impact of carrying a weapon."

Applications for the fund are open until 23:59 BST on Monday 24 June.

Education programmes are scheduled to begin in September and run to March 2025.