Menu

Somerset and Knife Crime

If you have information about knife crime in your area and you are nervous about going to the police, phone Crimestoppers

What counts as knife crime

Knife crime is any offence that involves a knife or other bladed or sharply pointed object. It can happen in public spaces, homes, schools and colleges, and online.

Knife crime includes:

  • Carrying a knife (or trying to buy one if you are under 18).
  • Threatening someone with a knife, even if no injury is caused.
  • Carrying a knife that is banned by law.
  • Using a knife in a robbery, burglary or other offence.
  • An assault or murder where someone is injured or killed with a knife.

Knives used in incidents are often everyday items such as kitchen knives. Any knife or bladed article can cause serious injury.

Knife crime and the law

Key points to be aware of (England and Wales):

  • It is illegal to sell most knives and blades to anyone under 18.
  • It is illegal to carry most knives in public without a good reason or lawful authority.
  • The only general exception is a folding pocketknife with a cutting edge of 3 inches (7.62cm) or less, as long as it does not lock open.
  • Some types of knives and weapons are illegal to own, carry, buy or sell (often referred to as “banned weapons”).
  • Carrying a knife can lead to arrest, prosecution, and long‑term consequences such as a criminal record affecting education, employment and travel.

If you are unsure about what is legal, use the official Government guidance.

Bystanding, assisting or encouraging:

  • If you help someone to carry, hide, store, sell or use a knife, you could be investigated and prosecuted.
  • Encouraging someone else to carry or use a knife (including online) can also have serious legal consequences.
  • Being present is not the same as committing an offence, but if you become involved (for example by holding a weapon or helping someone avoid police) you could be putting yourself at risk.

Somerset and knife crime

Somerset is generally a safe place to live, but local partners have increasing concerns about serious youth violence, criminal exploitation and knife‑related harm. Knife crime is often linked to wider safeguarding issues such as criminal exploitation, peer pressure, and social media‑related conflict.

Somerset’s Violence Reduction Partnership works with schools, police, health, youth services and community organisations to prevent serious violence and support young people.

You can find more information about the partnership here Safer Somerset Partnership.

Surrendering weapons

If you have a knife or weapon you want to hand in, do not attempt to carry it around in public unless you have clear instructions from police.

If you find a knife in a public place, do not touch it. Move away and contact the police.

In an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger, call 999. For non‑emergency advice, call 101 or use online reporting.

Visit Avon and Somerset Police advice page for more information.

If you or someone you know needs advice or help

If you are worried about a child or young person, trust your instincts and seek help early. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. If the matter is not immediately urgent, call 101.

Advice to stay safe whether you are out and about in a busy location, online, or in your home, plus tips to help vulnerable people. Visit Protect yourself and others | Avon and Somerset Police page.

Safeguarding and early help (Somerset)

If you are worried a child may be at risk, please contact Somerset Children’s Social Care.

Support and helplines

  • Crimestoppers (anonymous) – Give information anonymously about crime. Telephone: 0800 555 111
  • Fearless (anonymous for young people) – Anonymous information and advice for under 18 years old.
  • Victim Support (24/7) – Confidential support if you have been affected by crime. Telephone: 08 08 16 89 111
  • Childline (under 19 years old) – Free, confidential support for children and young people. Telephone: 0800 1111
  • NSPCC Helpline (adults) – Advice for adults concerned about a child. Telephone: 0800 1111
  • Samaritans (24/7) – Emotional support for anyone. Telephone: 0800 1111
  • SHOUT (24/7 text) – Free crisis support by text. Text SHOUT to 85258

Parent and guardian guides

Report Knife Crime

  • If someone is in immediate danger or a crime is in progress: call 999.
  • If it is not an emergency: call 101 or report online (England and Wales).
  • If you want to report anonymously: contact Crimestoppers. Telephone: 0800 555 111
  • Young people can usen Fearless to report anonymously and get non‑judgemental advice.

Knife crime and domestic abuse

Domestic abuse can involve threats or use of weapons, including knives. The presence of a weapon can increase risk and fear and is a sign to seek help.  Under the Domestic abuse Act Children who witness Domestic Abuse are victims.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse:

Domestic abuse can also be a risk factor for children and young people becoming involved in violence or exploitation.

Other information

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Next review due: October 7, 2026

Back to top