Campaign to reduce knife related violence launches today

A campaign aimed at reducing knife-related violence launches today (18/5).

Sceptre is a national knife crime campaign which takes place twice a year. This month, Sceptre will highlight once again the need for responsible retailing from local business owners with a strong focus on test purchasing operations across the county.

Test purchasing operations will be held throughout the week with assistance from our police cadets. Weapon sweeps with the use of metal detectors will take place and the knife arch will travel to various locations across the county.

Sceptre coincides with the launch of the Wiltshire Police Bleed Kit Partnership – an initiative with Wiltshire Police, HeartSafe Uk, NHS England South West and South West Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. The initiative aims to improve community safety by providing potentially life-saving emergency bleed kits in public spaces throughout our local communities.

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “These bleed kits can make a life-saving difference in the critical moments after a serious injury, giving members of the public the tools and confidence to act before emergency services arrive.

“This initiative is a strong example of partnership working, with policing, health services and organisations like HeartSafe UK coming together to better protect our communities. It is particularly important that these kits are clinically approved by our ambulance colleagues, ensuring the equipment and guidance meet professional standards and are mapped on internal systems for quick signposting in an emergency.

“Launching this partnership during Sceptre week also reinforces our commitment to tackling knife crime and reducing violence and serious harm across Wiltshire, which is a main priority in my Police and Crime Plan.

“While this national campaign highlights prevention and early intervention, initiatives like this help ensure we are equally prepared to respond when incidents do occur. These kits will also play a vital role beyond violent incidents, including in our rural and agricultural communities, where serious accidents can happen and immediate access to life-saving equipment can be critical.

“I would encourage residents, businesses and community groups to support this initiative by hosting a kit locally and play their part in keeping Wiltshire safe.”

Superintendent Mike Vass said: “Knife crime has a devastating impact on victims, families and communities. Retailers can make a real difference by ensuring knives are sold safely and responsibly. Together, through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to public safety, we can reduce the risk and protect those most at risk of harm. We will continue to take robust action against those who carry knives, but enforcement alone is not enough. Responsible knife sales by retailers are essential in preventing these weapons from being misused. We are asking businesses to play their part by following the law and helping us stop knife crime at its source.”

“It is crucial that people know where their nearest bleed kit is so that if they do find themselves in a life or death situation, they are best equipped to help. The kits come with fundamental life-saving equipment and clear instructions to help provide emergency first aid for someone who is suffering significant blood loss prior to emergency services arriving on scene. They are available to the public 24/7.”

Each bleed kit has a first-aid kit, which contains haemostatic dressings, trauma dressings, and a tourniquet to help stem the loss of blood in the critical first few minutes.

If you witness an ongoing incident involving a knife or offensive weapon, call 999 immediately.

After calling 999, find your nearest bleed kit.

If you have a question or want more details, email [email protected]