Coinciding with Operation Sceptre (w/c 17th November), the national launch of “Safer Together” marks a significant step forward in the collective effort to address knife violence across the UK.

“Safer Together” is a powerful new national resource designed to help prevent knife violence and promote positive restoration in our communities. Created in Bristol by Community Interest Company, Unique Voice, in partnership with Crimestoppers in the West Country and Avon & Somerset Police, “Safer Together” represents more than a toolkit – it’s a movement born from the creativity, resilience and voices of Bristol’s young people.

The 90-minute launch CPD brought together guest speakers, lived experiences and hands-on training for teachers, youth workers, community leaders and other professionals working with young people in our communities. Participants explored practical ways to deliver assemblies, workshops and interventions that foster empathy, reflection and advocacy for change.

The training and accompanying resource focus on:

• Hosting safe, meaningful and empathetic discussions about knife crime
• Equipping young people to reflect, connect and advocate for change
• Signposting to key services such as Crimestoppersand Fearless

To access this powerful free resource, it is available here (https://uniquevoice.org/resources/safer-together-lets-tackle-knife-violence/)

“This is Bristol creativity at its best – using storytelling, empathy and collaboration to address one of the most pressing issues facing young people today,” said Krystal Keeley, Director at Unique Voice. “We’ve seen first-hand the power of giving young people a platform to lead change, and now we’re proud to share this approach with communities nationwide.”

Born in Bristol, built for change

In response to the rising concern around knife violence locally and nationally, “Safer Together” was co-developed with Bristol secondary schools, including Oasis John Williams, Bridge Learning Campus and E-ACT Merchants’ Academy Secondary School.

At the heart of the resource is a short film created by young people, exploring the impact of knife violence and crime on their lives, their communities and their futures. Through workshops and creative sessions, over 600 students were engaged – and 15 young people went on to co-create the film that became the emotive core of “Safer Together”.

The project has since become a symbol of hope and advocacy, amplifying youth voices and calling for safer streets and stronger communities. The film was first screened in South Bristol, where it became a shared moment of healing – a reflection of pain, resilience and a collective desire for change.

From local response to national resource

Following its positive local impact, “Safer Together” has now evolved into a national resource for schools and community organisations, empowering professionals across the UK to host important conversations and promote early intervention.

“Our goal is to equip every educator, youth worker and community leader with the confidence to have these challenging conversations,” continues Krystal. “Change starts with connection – and we hope that’s what “Safer Together” continues to deliver for communities nationwide – just as it is doing here in Bristol.”

Project partners and funders

The “Safer Together” resource was created in partnership with Crimestoppers in the West Country and Avon & Somerset Police.

The original film and community project were made possible thanks to the Safer Together Collective, including: The Nisbet Trust, Foundation for Children, John James Charitable Trust, Tredwin and Pennington Fund via Quartet Community Foundation, Fearless, Jack’s Lab, Event Logic Productions, and Ashton Gate Stadium. Alongside individual contributors, Nicky Spencer-Hutchings and Esther Lambert.

To access this powerful, free resource, head here: https://uniquevoice.org/resources/safer-together-lets-tackle-knife-violence/ and to explore Unique Voice’s work, empowering young people through creativity, see: www.uniquevoice.org

ENDS