Dorset Police is taking part in a national campaign to raise awareness around knife carrying and knife crime.

The campaign, led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), is running this week until Sunday, May 19.

A key focus of the week will be to raise awareness around the consequences and dangers of carrying a knife, and will see enhanced enforcement, engagement and education from officers.

This news comes after several incidents in Weymouth which saw knives used. 

A man was stabbed in an assault in Littlemoor on Saturday, May 4, which prompted a huge police response.

In April a shop owner told of how a masked man held up his store at knifepoint - leaving staff and customers 'shaken'.

A knife attack in the town centre in the early hours of January 27 saw a man aged in his 30s taken to hospital for treatment to stab wounds.

In February a man also pleaded guilty to barging into another family's caravan at a holiday park in Weymouth whilst wielding kitchen knives in August 2023.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, David Sidwick said: “It is the responsibility of all of us to help tackle knife crime.

"That could mean making a different choice and not carrying a knife, talking to children and young people about the dangers of knives, reporting concerns to the police or the relevant authority, or simply seeking informed advice; it is only by working together can we tackle this devastating offence."

During the week, various education activities will be taking place to raise awareness around knife crime and knife carrying, including the use of knife arches in schools, colleges and public spaces.

Test purchases of knives will be taking place with local retailers as police engage with retailers, ensuring they are aware of who they are selling knives to and confirm they are following the appropriate safety guidelines for legal selling and distribution.

Knife surrender bins will be provided at Weymouth Police Station during the week of activity.

Those who do carry knives are encouraged to surrender them without question or repercussions from police, to help keep themselves and others safe.

Mr Sidwick added: “Dorset has one of the lowest rates of knife crime, but while young people continue to pick up a knife for any reason, we all still have work to do.

"There is no room for complacency, and I want to assure you, the ongoing efforts to stop another family suffering a tragic loss are relentless.

“Tackling knife crime is a priority but cannot be solved through policing alone.

"Through robust collaboration, a multi-agency approach, and the help of the public, we can all ensure Dorset is the safest place.

"We need to help our young people to understand that carrying a knife puts you at more risk. Tragedy can happen in a heartbeat and that’s why I am supporting Sceptre.”

For information or to report a person carrying a knife report visit the Dorset Police website at dorset.police.uk/tua

Alternatively information can be reported anonymously to CrimeStoppers UK on 0800 555111. 

Retailers can visit this website for guidance on selling knives: www.nbcc.police.uk/knifeguidance