“Services are already stretched" - Hampshire PCC calls for more details on government's latest knife crime plan
The Police & Crime Commissioner for Hampshire & Isle of Wight has called for more details after the government unveiled plans for early intervention in knife crime.
Donna Jones welcomed the efforts in tackling the issueal but raised concerns regarding the practicality of every child caught carrying a knife being given mandatory, targeted support to prevent reoffending. The plans were unveiled by the deputy prime minister, David Lammy, on February 11, with £320 million to be invested into Youth Justice Services.
PCC Donna Jones said: “Any efforts to tackle the endemic issue of knife crime are welcome, but I would like to see more detail about how these so-called mandatory plans will be enforced.
“Services are already stretched and working incredibly hard to make a difference. I have long stated that early intervention is vital if we are to tackle the problem of children and young people being drawn into serious violence.
“But we also need to focus on the root causes – many young people are extremely vulnerable and come from difficult backgrounds, with many experiencing trauma through neglect or violence.”
Donna Jones added: “I have invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in my Violence Reduction Unit to work alongside partner organisations like Youth Services to identify and disrupt those who may be harming or exploiting young people.
“Communication between teachers, social workers and health professionals must also improve if we are going to protect our children and communities going forward.”
Upon releasing the knife crime plans, David Lammy said: “Every life lost to knife crime is an unmitigated tragedy. With early targeted action, we can put children on the right path to a positive future and stop them falling into a toxic cycle of reoffending.
“Our reforms will give local services the security they need to help more young people and make our streets safer for everyone.”