More than 230 areas most affected by knife crime will receive increased police patrols, CCTV, and early prevention work as part of an expanded crackdown across 27 police forces in England and Wales. The Home Secretary is supporting local plans developed by police and councils, which will be tailored to each area.
These plans will combine police enforcement, such as enhanced patrols, with programmes for young people at risk of knife crime. Improvements to public spaces, including better lighting and redesigning areas to prevent weapons from being hidden, are also planned.
The expansion follows new data indicating that seven forces – Metropolitan Police, West Midlands Police, Greater Manchester Police, West Yorkshire Police, South Yorkshire Police, Avon and Somerset Police, and British Transport Police – have seen a 23% reduction in knife-enabled robbery since June 2024. This accounts for over 3,600 fewer reported knife robberies. Overall knife crime is reported to be down by 11% since the government came into office.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that targeted policing and prevention, focused on areas with the greatest need, is already reducing knife robberies. She visited the West Midlands yesterday, 17 September, which is receiving additional funding through the Knife Crime Concentrations Fund.