New patrols are being rolled out this week as part of ongoing work to prevent serious violence, reduce knife crime and help keep people safe.
Project Guardian, funded through the Home Office’s Knife Crime Concentration Fund, will use intelligence and crime data to direct officers and resources to identified areas across the Northumbria force area.
The project aims to achieve a 33% reduction in knife crime over the next two years, combining funded patrols with existing work carried out by Northumbria Police’s Serious Violence Disruption Unit and Neighbourhood Policing Teams.
This latest initiative forms part of a wider programme of prevention and enforcement activity delivered by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, Northumbria Police, and partners, supporting the Government’s mission to halve knife crime.
Launched during Sceptre, a national week of action dedicated to tackling knife crime, the programme of activity comes ahead of the busy summer period and includes targeted, high-visibility patrols and public engagement activity in our vibrant town and city centres.
Alongside patrols, the project will continue partnership working with councils, youth services and community organisations on early intervention, safeguarding and problem-solving activity, designed to address the causes of serious violence and support long-term prevention.
Reflecting the project’s commitment to working with local communities, the Project Guardian branding was designed by Orbis Community Centre.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Project Guardian builds on the extensive work already taking place across our communities to prevent serious violence and reduce knife crime.
“By using intelligence and local insight, we can ensure resources are in places where they will have the greatest impact – not only through policing patrols and enforcement activity, but through meaningful engagement with communities.
“As we head into the busy summer period, I want people to feel safe when they are out enjoying everything our towns and cities have to offer – and these patrols will provide a visible and reassuring presence.
“Prevention must remain at the heart of this work, and through the Violence Reduction Unit and our partners, we are continuing to work closely with youth services, schools and community organisations to educate, reach people earlier, and address the underlying causes of serious violence.
“This is not just about enforcement. It’s about working together to build long-term solutions that help create safer streets, and stronger communities for everyone.”
Strategic Lead for Project Guardian, Assistant Chief Constable Andrew Hill, of Northumbria Police, said: “The funding secured through Project Guardian will enable us to further strengthen the prevention and problem-solving approach we have developed with our partners.
“When effectively co-ordinated and underpinned by strong analysis, hotspot patrols, partnership-led problem solving and early intervention in our communities all make a real difference.
“Tackling violence involving weapons remains a strategic priority and this investment will support our efforts to reduce the harm caused by knife crime”.
For more information about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, visit the website or email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.
ENDS
