Cumbria Police is supporting the national SCEPTRE campaign next week, offering the public the opportunity to dispose of knives and other bladed articles safely.
SCEPTRE runs from Monday (16 Nov) to Sunday (22 Nov).
It is a long-standing national policing campaign which aims to make streets safer across the country, including by providing people with the opportunity to dispose of knives anonymously and safely in amnesty bins at local police stations.
In Cumbria, officers will be working with local schools and colleges to raise awareness of the potential consequences of possessing a knife, as well as conducting test-purchasing operations at shops and stores across the county.
Chief Inspector Sam Turner said: "It is important that we remain vigilant to the dangers of knife crime and do not become complacent when it comes to people being in possession of knives and other bladed articles.
"This is why we support the SCEPTRE week of focus.
"Next week we will be prioritising the education of young people about the dangers knives pose to themselves and others.
"We will reiterate that Cumbria is one of the safest places in the country to live, work and travel, so there is no justification for carrying a knife for protection."
Someone in possession of a knife is not only increasing the risk of harm to themselves but could also face a fine of up to £5,000 and a prison sentence of up to four years.
Ch Insp Turner said: "I would urge people to make use of the amnesty bins as an opportunity to safely dispose of potentially dangerous knives and other bladed articles.
"I would also take this opportunity to encourage anyone who has knowledge of individuals being in possession of knives in public to report it to us today so that action can be taken before that person harms themselves or others."
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Knife crime can have devastating effects on communities so it is important that we, as a society, hand over any unused knives or sharp objects that could be used as weapons.
“Education is key to reducing crime – the more we understand the effects and consequences of carrying weapons of any kind, the less likely we are to do so. I’m pleased to see the Constabulary engaging with our younger residents to help inform them of what could happen if they choose to carry a knife.
“Sceptre is an opportunity for us all to do our part - I would urge anyone that has sharp objects that could be used as a weapon to hand them over to one of the amnesties across the county.
“Together we can continue to make Cumbria a safer county for everyone.”
Anyone wishing to hand in a weapon should place it in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public. Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.
The stations where you can hand in knives or other bladed articles are:
North
- Carlisle
- Penrith (Hunter Lane)
South
- Barrow
- Kendal
West
- Whitehaven
- Workington
To check on opening times please visit: Find a police station | Cumbria Police
If you are worried about the someone who is in possession of a knife or need advice, please contact police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
You can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit. You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Always call 999 in an emergency and when a crime is in progress.