Campaign to reduce knife-related violence sees safety initiatives launched, test purchasing operations and weapon sweeps

Knife crime prevention in action across Wiltshire

Last week, as part of the national Sceptre campaign, Wiltshire Police carried out weapon sweeps, school visits and test‑purchase operations to help keep our communities safe.

 New initiatives launched included:

• Bleed Kit Partnership providing life‑saving equipment across the county

• Safer Knives scheme helping households swap pointed knives for safer alternatives

Officers also engaged with young people in schools and community projects, raising awareness of the dangers of carrying knives.

Test purchase results show more work is needed – several retailers failed to challenge under‑25s attempting to buy knives.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Preventing harm before it happens is a shared responsibility. These initiatives are practical steps that can make a real difference.”

Read more here.