AN ‘ICONIC’ campaign to raise awareness of the consequences of knife crime and violence is touring Rugby this month.
Rugby Borough Council (RBC) is promoting the Knife Free Rugby campaign by taking a unique Anti-Violence Bee sculpture around the town.
The bee monument from Manchester – the first UK sculpture to be made entirely of knives and firearms – represents zero tolerance towards violence.
The campaign was launched in Caldecott Park by Mayor Simon Ward, alongside representatives of Rugby Police and Rugby First Rangers.
It has been the symbol of the campaign since its launch in Caldecott Park earlier this month, when Mayor Simon Ward gave a poignant reflection and led a minute’s silence in respect to those lost to violent attacks.
Throughout the tour, virtual reality headsets are being used to show the potential consequences of carrying knives, knife surrender bins have been made available, and residents have been encouraged to raise their concerns around knife crime.
The campaign comes following 57 violent knife crimes in Rugby during the past year, and a further 49 offences relating to possession of or threats with knives. Ten offences involving young people.
Police Sgt Roberts of the Rugby Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “This is a brilliant idea and we’re happy to support it.
“As a frontline police officer, I’ve seen the realities of knife crime and the devastation it causes.
“But I’ve also seen just how effective early intervention can be in preventing tragedy. Those carrying knives will sometimes be coerced, and they might feel like they have no other choice.
“This is about showing them that there is support and that there are ways out. I’ve seen people’s lives changed completely because they’ve taken that first step to get out of that lifestyle.
“I’d encourage everyone to come and see the Anti-Violence Bee, to experience the virtual reality headsets and to chat with us and our partner agency colleagues.
The imposing sculpture is the first in the UK to be made entirely out of knives and firearms. Picture by Marcus Mingins 3324006MMR1 www.buyphotos247.com
“Knife crime is a community problem – and we as a community can solve it.”
Coun Claire Edwards, RBC’s spokesperson for Communities and Homes, Regulation and Safety, said: “It is a crucial time to raise awareness about the harms of knife crime and serious violence. The roadshow around Rugby in August is open to everyone so please drop in.”
A spokesperson for the Council’s Community Safety Team added: “This campaign aims to support the public, especially young people, in raising awareness but also gives the opportunity for an amnesty to surrender dangerous weapons in order to clear the streets of violent and aggressive behaviour.”
The roadshow is due to visit Junction One Retail Park on Tuesday (August 27) and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Centre on Thursday (August 29).
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/knifefreerugby for more information.
