Home / Crime and Justice / Vets Launch Knife Amnesty Van Across Staffordshire
Vets Launch Knife Amnesty Van Across Staffordshire
10 Jul
Summary
- Veteran-led group uses mobile van for knife amnesty.
- Workshops aim to redirect young people toward opportunities.
- Focus on meaningful conversations with communities.
A novel initiative led by former armed services personnel is now touring Staffordshire with a dedicated knife amnesty van. The Black Onyx Academy, a veteran-led training provider based in Stoke-on-Trent, is operating the vehicle which is equipped with an amnesty bin.
This mobile unit will allow individuals to surrender unwanted blades, contributing to efforts to reduce knife crime. Crucially, the van will also serve as a platform for engaging in vital conversations with young people, families, and the wider community.
According to Stefan Northfield, strategic lead and former Royal Marine, veterans feel a strong duty of care. He emphasized the positive potential in young people, noting that they often need guidance and direction. The workshops conducted from the van aim to highlight constructive paths and opportunities available to them.
