Facing up to the reality of knife crime

Knife-carrying yobs in Rochdale will be shown graphic images of stab wounds in an effort to discourage them from reoffending, it has been revealed.

Doctors and nurses will show them real-life pictures of the damage done by blades as part of Government efforts to clamp down on knife crime.

Under the Knife Crime Prevention Programme, which includes Greater Manchester, young offenders will also meet victims of knife crime and ex-criminals who have turned their lives around.

The scheme, run jointly by the Home Office and Youth Justice Boards in England and Wales, will also offer anger management courses and lectures by police on the law on knives.

Home Office Minister David Hanson said he hoped it would help turn youngsters away from criminal gangs.

He said: “This course brings young people face to face with the consequences of knife crime.

“These young people could be on the brink of entering serious crime or gang lifestyles.

“By bringing together the police, local authorities and ex-offenders in this way we hope to prevent this happening and give these young people back their futures.”

Schools Minister Vernon Coaker said the campaign sent a message to young people that carrying a knife would not be tolerated.

He added: “The vast majority of young people are law-abiding and on the right track to becoming responsible adults. However, those that do break the law must be held accountable.

“Through this programme young people are being made to acknowledge their crime while carrying out their sentences, helping to prevent a repeat offence.”