New date for Keynsham knife crime awareness event

PARENTS and carers in Keynsham are invited to learn about the devastating impact of knife crime and how they can support young people to steer away from its dangers at an event at Broadlands Academy.

The event was originally scheduled to take place on Thursday July 18, but it has now been postponed to Friday September 27, 6pm-8pm. 

The Bath & North East Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) is running the event to raise awareness of the key issues surrounding knife crime, empowering families to make informed and positive decisions to keep young people safe.

The event is one of a series being held across Bath and North East Somerset and is the second time the event has been held in Keynsham, the first having taken place in November 2023.

Those attending will have the opportunity to hear from a speaker who has been personally affected by knife crime. There will also be a presentation about Street Doctors followed by a panel discussion with the opportunity to ask questions.

Free tickets can be booked in advance via Eventbrite: https://KnifeCrimeAwareness.eventbrite.co.uk

Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “It’s more important than ever that our children and young people know the devastating effects that knife crime has on themselves and others.

“The speakers we have at the event are passionate about educating parents and carers about these dangerous issues, so they can empower young people to reject peer pressure and make better decisions if they are considering putting themselves at risk.”

The VRP is a multi-agency partnership that aims to prevent and reduce violence in the area. It works to understand and address the root causes of violence, to prevent further violent crimes from occurring in the future. It also provides resources and supports the work of professionals and community groups who help children at risk or involved in serious violence.

It is made up of representatives from Bath & North East Somerset Council, Avon and Somerset Police, DHI Project 28, Youth Connect Southwest, NHS and more.

Any questions about the event can be emailed to VRP_Events@bathnes.gov.uk