More cash to tackle knife-crime hotspots

Greater Manchester Police are set to be handed extra funds to tackle knife crime in hotspot areas.

More than half of the country’s knife crime occurs in London, Greater Manchester and the West Midlands where police will share £3.75 million.

The cash is part of an £19 million fund aimed at tackling, knife, gun and gang crime announced by the Home Secretary Theresa May.

The money will also be spent on a ‘Communities against Gangs, Guns and Knives fund,’ activities to stop people becoming involved with knife crime and developing anti-knife, gun and gang crime materials for schools. A website will also be set up to share good practice. Greater Manchester is part of the Tackling Knives Action Programme launched by the previous government in 2008.

Home Secretary Mrs May said: “This new funding will support vital police work where it is most needed and most importantly help young people and local voluntary organisations working at the heart of our communities.”

Former Eastenders actress Brooke Kinsella was appointed government adviser on knife crime last year following the death of her 16-year-old brother Ben who was stabbed to death three years ago.

Ms Kinsella’s report recommends including anti-knife crime presentations for school children, more data sharing between police, schools and other agencies on local issues, a best practice website for local organisations and more work with young children.

The Home Secretary said anyone found in possession of a knife should expect prison.