Sceptre: PCC backs powerful films and youth voices 

Sceptre Week: national knife crime week of action (18 – 24 May)

This week, I have been bringing together policing, partners and young people across Avon and Somerset to take action on knife crime.

On Thursday, I met with officers from Avon and Somerset Police to discuss local issues, as they engaged with the community and performed a knife sweep at King Square.

But we know that long-term change is not driven by enforcement alone.

The root causes of knife crime are complex and often begin early; education, opportunity and trusted community support are key drivers of change.

Blunt Truth

That is why I am proud to have co-commissioned the redevelopment of a short film for Blunt Truth, which was screened this week at Bristol’s Watershed cinema. The 15-minute film features a young cast and explores the complex social and online pressures that can lead to knife crime.

Its screening in secondary schools across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset from July will support young people to build the skills and confidence they need to keep themselves and others safe.

Postcodes

I also had the privilege of hosting a panel discussion and screening of Postcodes at Avon and Somerset Police HQ – a powerful short documentary which captures the voices of young people affected by knife crime and postcode-based rivalries across Bristol. It follows inspirational Empire Fighting Chance mentor and knife crime campaigner Serena Wiebe as she engages with other young people and youth workers in the area.

It has provided young people with a platform and allowed us to connect serving officers, police staff, community partners and young people, to discuss local challenges and partnership working.

I am grateful to our panellists – Serena Wiebe BEM, Postcodes director Neil Maggs, and Bristol Commander Chief Superintendent Paul Wigginton – as well as the young people from Empire Fighting Chance who attended.

My commitment

While Sceptre Week provides an opportunity to spotlight the issues, preventing crime and reducing violence are at the heart of my Police and Crime Plan and a key focus year-round.

Through our Violence Reduction Partnerships, we are reaching thousands of young people and children to fund and support early intervention – including mentoring, education, youth work, and family support.

But there is always more to be done.

As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I will continue to bring partners together, commission vital services, and give a platform to authentic voices and lived experiences in our communities as we work to prevent knife crime – not just during Sceptre Week, but all year round.