What is the average age of child knife injury victims in England?

The average victim of a knife injury in England is now 14 years old.

Where do most child knife deaths in England occur?

Most child knife deaths in England occur in areas facing the greatest levels of poverty.

What factors are linked to increased risk of child knife fatalities?

Children facing adversity and marginalization, including those with adverse childhood experiences like domestic violence and abuse, are at a higher risk.

Home / Crime and Justice / England's Youngest Victims: 14-Year-Olds Die From Stabbings

England's Youngest Victims: 14-Year-Olds Die From Stabbings

21 Apr

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Summary

Average victim of knife injury is now 14 years old.
75% of child knife deaths occurred in areas of greatest poverty.
Children with adverse experiences faced higher risks.

England's Youngest Victims: 14-Year-Olds Die From Stabbings

A new study indicates that knife-related fatalities among children and young people under 18 in England are a significant public health concern. The research found that on average, three children die each month from knife injuries, with the typical victim being 14 years old.

The analysis, which examined data from April 2019 to March 2024, revealed a concerning increase in these deaths, rising from 21 in 2019/20 to 36 in 2023/24. A stark majority of the 145 children who lost their lives were male, and a substantial 75% came from areas experiencing the most severe poverty.