A pioneering youth programme aimed at tackling knife crime is marking one year since its launch, with the original group of young people returning this week as Ambassadors to share how their experiences are shaping the choices they make.
The Trainee Detective Programme, developed by Northumbria Police in partnership with the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, has welcomed multiple cohorts over the past year, giving more than 80 students the chance to step into the role of detectives.
Empowering young people to take a stand against knife crime, this immersive, week-long programme mirrors the real-life investigation into the murder of Connor Brown, a Sunderland teenager who was fatally stabbed in 2019.
At the heart of this ground-breaking initiative are his parents, Tanya and Simon Brown, who continue to share their personal story in a powerful effort to educate young people on the devastating impact of knife crime.
A wide range of partners, including police staff, education teams, forensic specialists, medical professionals, and legal experts, have helped bring this programme to life, ensuring young people not only learn about the consequences of knife crime, but are also empowered to make safer choices.
Since taking part last year, students have remained engaged in activities designed to deepen their understanding, including a visit to the Knife Angel in Sunderland last summer, alongside an awareness session delivered by the Connor Brown Trust, reinforcing the clear message that knives impact everyone.
Now, returning as Ambassadors to offer insight into how the initiative is influencing the choices they make, one young person said: “Taking part in this programme has made me realise how serious knife crime is, and the impact it can have on so many people. Now, I want to help others understand the consequences before it’s too late.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Reaching this milestone is a testament to the power of education and the incredible team behind this programme. Most importantly, it reflects the dedication of the young people who have taken part.”
“Initiatives like this spark vital conversations, and I know many of the young people have already spoken with their friends outside of the programme on the devastating impact of knife crime. We need more of this, as prevention is so important.”
“The fact that some of the original group have returned, not only to share their experiences but to take their involvement a step further by becoming Ambassadors, speaks volumes about the lasting influence of this programme. It also reinforces the crucial role of peer support in tackling knife crime.”
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to Tanya and Simon Brown, who continue be an integral part of this programme, sharing their story and channelling such pain and loss into something so positive.”
She added: ‘Equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence to make safer, more informed choices is essential. That’s why we must continue working together to build safer, stronger communities and, ultimately, prevent further tragedies.”
Chief Inspector Angela Hewitt, of Northumbria Police, said: “When this project was launched it was the first of its kind, and I’m over the moon that alongside our partner organisations we’ve been able to make it a success.”
“The triumph of this project means we can continue to raise awareness of the utter devastation carrying a knife can cause and it’s brilliant to see the impact this programme has had on the young people who have already taken part. As a Force we will continue to work with young people, doing all that we can to prevent further instances of knife crime.”
“Thank you again to Connor’s family and our partner organisations. It’s thanks to your collective dedication and enthusiasm, we’ve been able to educate more than 80 students on this incredibly important issue in society so far. I hope this initiative is something we are able to continue to work together on, empowering young people to make the right choice before it’s too late.”
Tanya Brown of Connor Brown Trust: “We feel so proud to be part of this unique programme and work alongside all the amazing people involved. Sharing Connor’s story in this way helps these young people feel the devastating reality, it also empowers them to find out exactly what happened as they delve into forensics and witness statements and all the other elements.”
“The learning outcomes from this is so much more than they realise, and what they learn they share with peers and families. This programme has also inspired some of the young people into considering a future in some of the professions that are involved in the programme which is incredible.”
“We believe in educating to prevent knife crime and we also understand that everyone learns in different ways, this programme offers so many different learning experiences with one clear message, and that is knife crime impacts on everyone. We do all we do because we believe in young people. Young people are tomorrow’s future, and we do not want more families living through the heartache of losing a child or loved one to knife crime.”
Vicky Pinkney, Principal at Hetton Academy said: “I am immensely proud of the students who took part in The Trainee Detective Programme. They have become ambassadors both within school and in the community. They can passionately articulate the impact that knife crime has on families and the community and are not afraid to share their knowledge with others. The impact that this programme has had on the students is life changing”.
The Trainee Detective Programme is part of the wider work of Northumbria Police, the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, and partners, in tackling the root causes of serious violence, and diverting people from violent crime.
