Parents Open Knife Bin On Son's Death Anniversary

Phil and Emma Dix, parents of murdered teenager Joe Dix, have launched Norfolk's first knife surrender bin. The opening occurred on the fourth anniversary of Joe's death, marking a significant step in their anti-knife crime advocacy. The bin is situated in Norwich, close to where their son was fatally stabbed seven times during a burglary aftermath on January 28, 2022.

The Dix family's charity, established in Joe's name, funded the bin located at St Catherine's Church. Emma Dix expressed that while it is a sad day, the bin serves as a tangible reminder of Joe and a positive way to help others. Phil Dix stated the unveiling was about giving back to the community and doing positive family work.

The charity actively engages with students and community groups across Norfolk, sharing their son's story to combat knife crime and gang culture. They collaborate with Norfolk Police, showcasing seized knives to illustrate street threats. Additionally, they distribute bleed kits to businesses and have become part of the government's taskforce against knife crime.

Emma emphasized the critical need for parental awareness regarding youth exploitation by criminal gangs, citing Joe's own grooming by county lines dealers. She warned that such exploitation can affect any child, regardless of background. The knife bin is designed for safe and easy use, encouraging the disposal of unwanted kitchen knives, with plans to recycle the surrendered weapons.