Rising Knife Crime: Addressing the Impact on Young People
Written by Ejemen Ebosele
In a move that has sparked both praise and controversy, the Prime Minister recently approved a new Netflix series focusing on adolescence, an issue that is particularly relevant in the context of rising knife crime among young people in the UK. The series aims to shine a light on the struggles faced by teens, particularly those growing up in areas affected by gang violence and knife crime. While entertainment often reflects real-world issues, this approval comes at a time when knife crime is a significant concern for young people across the country, and the government's role in addressing this crisis is increasingly scrutinized. By focusing on the personal stories of young people involved in knife crime, the series seeks to humanise the issue, encouraging a broader societal conversation about how we can better support our youth.
Knife crime in the UK has surged in recent years, with young people disproportionately affected, both as victims and perpetrators. According to official statistics, over 40,000 knife crime incidents were reported in the UK in 2023, with a significant portion of those incidents involving teenagers. The impact on young people is profound, as many are not only at risk of physical harm but also face the psychological toll of growing up in an environment where violence is normalised. Communities grappling with this crisis often see generational cycles of crime, where young people are drawn into gangs or feel compelled to carry weapons for self-protection. An individual who I interviewed named Daniel, used to be involved in such a lifestyle before he decided to change his life around. He stated that “you did what you saw your elders doing, carrying knives, not even because you wanted to, you just succumb to pressure which is what happened to me, at that age I didn’t know any better”.
While entertainment can play a key role in raising awareness, addressing the root causes of knife crime requires a multifaceted approach. Young people often turn to knives as a means of protection or status, particularly in communities where gangs offer a sense of belonging. Tackling this issue requires more than just media portrayals, it demands targeted interventions that focus on prevention, education, and community engagement.
First, providing young people with better educational and employment opportunities is critical. Many teens who are involved in knife crime or gangs come from disadvantaged backgrounds, where limited opportunities can lead to frustration and a sense of hopelessness. Investing in schools, vocational training, and local youth projects can give young people the skills and confidence they need to pursue alternative paths. Second, early intervention is essential. Programs that work directly with young people at risk of being drawn into criminal activity, such as mentorship schemes, community centers, and outreach initiatives, can provide support and guidance at a crucial point in their lives. By offering positive role models and safe spaces, these programs can help prevent young people from feeling isolated or resorting to violence as a solution.
Lastly, stronger community policing and collaboration between local authorities, schools, and families is needed. Building trust between the police and young people, particularly in high-crime areas, can help to deter violence and foster a culture of mutual respect. Community-based approaches that engage with young people in a meaningful way are crucial in preventing knife crime and creating a safer environment for everyone. Teswal White, the CEO and founder of Activating creative talent shared that “this is going to take some time to solve this issue, I believe we are at the data gathering stage so that’s getting these organisations in to place, starting to systematically look at whats happening in these localities and those local areas and then starting to address those issues”. While the approval of the Netflix series on adolescence brings much-needed attention to the issue of knife crime, real change will only come when the government, communities, and individuals work together to tackle the root causes of violence and offer young people hope for a brighter future.