Blade offences reduced across Thames Valley policing area.
Knife crime is on the decrease in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas, Thames Valley Police have announced today.
Latest Office for National Statistics figures show that knife-enabled crime has fallen by 9% in the Thames Valley region in 2024, compared with the previous year. There were a total of 1067 knife related incidents in 2024 compared with 1179 in 2023.
Now, during this week’s Knife Crime Awareness Week, Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber has praised officers for their work in tacking knife crime and pledged to continue supporting the fight against violent lawbreaking.
Thames Valley Police have joined in the national focus on tackling knife crime by continuing patrols of areas previously linked to offenders, and carrying out weapon sweeps in public spaces.
They are also promoting 33 ‘amnesty bins’ in police stations and other locations across Thames Valley providing the opportunity for members of the public to dispose of knives and bladed articles in a safe and legal way.
This week the Thames Valley Police South Neighbourhood Team and Safer MK installed a new 24-hour amnesty bin at Grand Union Vineyard Church, Broadlands, Netherfield.
“If you have any unwanted knives or sharp objects, you can anonymously drop them in the bin, no questions asked,” said a Neighbourhood Team spokesperson. “This is a positive initiative designed to reduce violence and make our city safer for everyone.
“Let’s all do our part and support this important effort. If you know someone who needs help or might be carrying a weapon, encourage them to make use of the bin. Together, we can make Milton Keynes a safer place to live, work and play.”
A range of work is underway in the Thames Valley showing the positive impact to a multi-agency and holistic approach. Operation Deter completed its roll out in the region in December 2024. For adults, it’s a zero-tolerance approach to knife crime. For children and young people Op Deter Youth seeks earlier and intensive intervention through local Youth Offending Teams to divert those caught with knives and prevent further offending.
Matthew Barber committed £900,000 of funding to expand the programme following successful pilots in Milton Keynes and Slough. The rollout will see all nine Youth Justice Services delivering Op Deter Youth, which will be available in every Thames Valley Police custody suite.
“Knife enabled crime is decreasing in the Thames Valley which is encouraging, however, we can't be complacent,” said Matthew Barber.
“This is a testimony to the excellent work taking place by the force and with our partner organisations, to raise awareness, prevent and tackle knife crime and violence more generally.
“Knife crime remains a top priority and has a devastating impact on individuals and communities. Although the figures in the Thames Valley are going in the right direction, we know this is an issue that needs continued focus if we are to see reductions over the long term.”
Knife Crime Awareness Week 2025 focuses on empowerment. Backed by a growing network of charities, community groups and professionals the campaign will shift the focus away from the problem and highlight the people and initiatives already making a difference to people.
More details: www.knifecrimeawarenessweek.org.uk.
