A short film that highlights the impact that knife crime has on society has been named the winner at an annual awards ceremony at the University of Sunderland. The Police Short Film Awards recognises the hard work of Screen Performance, Performing Arts and Film Production students who have created short films that raise awareness about issues affecting society.

This marks the 11th year of this partnership between the University, the office of Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner and Northumbria Police.

Over the years, these projects have addressed challenging issues like county line drug crime, male rape, modern-day slavery, domestic violence, cybercrime and hate crime.

This year, students have been asked by Northumbria Police to look at knife crime and its impact on society.

This year’s winner, Hold On, follows the story of Amy who must decide whether she will report her sister who was responsible for a fatal stabbing.

Director of Hold On, Film Production student Myah Rahman, said: “Knife crime is such an important subject, so being given the opportunity to create a film that may spark discussions about it is a huge honour.”

“Directing this film was an amazing experience and I couldn’t have asked for a better cast and crew. I’ve had such a lovely time working on this module. We really appreciate the guidance from all specialists throughout it.”

Kira Cox, who studies and plays Amy, said: “It was such an honour getting to participate in such an important subject and hopefully help educate people in the future. Despite the heavy subject of the piece, getting to act in this group was a dream come true.”

All productions are turned into an awareness film, to be used as an educational or training tool for the police and specialists.

The winning film was announced by Susan Dungworth, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, during a recent ceremony at the University.

Dr Adelle Hulsmeier, Associate Professor of Partnerships and Participatory Practice at the University, hosted the event which was opened by Sir David Bell, the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive.

Dr Hulsmeier said: “This was another successful year, showcasing the students’ dedication and professionalism in responding to the issue of Knife Crime.”

“We watched five excellent films that ask the audience to confront and address the behaviours around, and outcomes and impacts of knife crime to the individual, their families and the wider community.”

“We are so honoured to be annually supported by Northumbria Police and Police Crime Commissioner’s Office, and proud to know that this work will feed into teaching and training lead by the Violence Reduction Unit and their partners.”

“The work tonight was testimony to our student’s talents in performance and filmmaking, and their maturity, professionalism and understanding in working on a hard hitting, timely brief.”

“Our students always make us proud in approaching the work with care, commitment and sensitivity, and it was wonderful to celebrate their achievements amongst colleagues, delegates, family and friends.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “Knife crime destroys lives. In recent years, we have seen far too many taken too soon, leaving families, friends, and entire communities to endure unimaginable grief. The impact is devastating. That’s why we must do everything we can to prevent it.”

A group of young people, supported by The Angelou Centre, hosted a powerful Culture Day in Newcastle, bringing communities together to celebrate diversity and foster unity in local areas.

Through sharing their personal stories and reflecting on the summer unrest, which united communities in standing against hate, the group sparked meaningful conversations at their Culture Day event, promoting community cohesion and positive change.

Funded by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund, the event featured a wide range of activities including art and history exhibitions, live music performances, food stalls, panel discussions, and educational workshops.

These activities were developed by the group to highlight the contributions of a diverse range of communities, and to engage attendees in conversations about identity, history and the importance of cohesion.

By creating an inclusive space for learning and understanding, the event not only amplified young people’s voices, but also showcased their significant role in tackling hate crime.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “Crime driven by hostility and hatred based on personal characteristics is completely unacceptable. That’s why initiatives like Culture Day are vital in bringing communities together, fostering understanding, and empowering young people to take a stand against hate.”

“I was delighted to meet with these remarkable young people at The Angelou Centre last summer, where they told me all about their ambition to hold an event that would bring communities together to celebrate diversity. Now, thanks to funding through the Violence Reduction Unit’s Local Youth Fund, we have been able to help make their vision a reality.”

“Having consulted locally, my new police and crime plan will have a clear focus on preventing hate crime and supporting victims. I truly believe that by working together, we can create safer, stronger communities where everyone feels valued and respected.”

The funding provided through the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit provides young people with a platform to share their views and innovative ideas, empowering them to participate in decisions made about their local area, and is part of a wider effort to address serious violence in communities.

For more about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.

ENDS

Following its early success, a ground-breaking initiative is again offering young people an immersive, hands-on experience to understand the impact of knife crime through a week-long programme that mirrors a real-life investigation.

Developed by Northumbria Police, and in partnership with the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, Trainee Detective Week enabled 25 students from Jesmond Park Academy to step into the role of junior detectives.

Over the course of the week, they explored the devastating impact of knife crime while developing vital life skills that will help them make safer choices for their future.

The programme began with a powerful session led by Tanya and Simon Brown of the Connor Brown Trust, who shared the heart-break of losing their son Connor to knife crime in 2019.

In a moving exercise, they asked the students to help solve Connor’s murder, with the group becoming immersed in a simulated investigation, beginning with a reconstructed crime scene.

Utilising immersive technology at Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall Campus, the students were transported to a virtual recreation of the events leading up to Connor’s death, and guided by police and forensic staff, they were able to put their learning and investigative techniques into practice.

A session with medical staff provided further insight into the realities of knife injuries, which can lead to devastating outcomes for victims and their families, highlighting the vital and urgent work of first responders.

As the week progressed, students analysed the evidence and built their case, with a visit to the magistrates’ court in Bedlington, providing them with a first-hand look at how the justice system handles knife crime.

The programme also emphasised teamwork, incorporating activities that encouraged clear communication and collaboration as students worked together to solve the case.

The week culminated in a presentation where students showcased their findings and received recognition for their understanding of the impact of knife crime, and the importance of preventing it.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “There is never a right time to carry a knife, and we know the tragic consequences that it can have. I don’t want to see another family left heartbroken, or a community destroyed as a result of knife crime, which is why we must continue doing all we can to tackle the issue.”

“Through innovative technology and real-life case studies, Trainee Detective Week provides an impactful way for young people to understand the harm caused by knife crime, and look at how it can be prevented.”

“It puts young people at the forefront of a real-life investigation, taking them on a journey that shows the devastating consequences of knife crime while equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to make informed decisions.”

“By immersing students in every aspect of the investigative process, we’re empowering them to think about the impact of their actions and work together to create safer, stronger communities.”

“My thanks to all those involved in making this programme possible, including Northumbria Police, the Violence Reduction Unit and Northumberland College, but also to Tanya and Simon Brown, who after losing their son Connor to knife crime, continue to do all they can to educate young people on the dangers of carrying and using knives.”

Chief Inspector Angela Hewitt, of Northumbria Police’s Prevention Department, said: “As a Force, we sadly know all too well the utter devastation that knife crime can cause. This innovative programme is a great way of explaining to our young people the danger of carrying and using knives.”

“We hope that by taking part in the course, the students have understood how by choosing to pick up a knife you can not only destroy your own life, but the lives of those around you too.”

“I’d also like to pay tribute once again to Tanya and Simon Brown for their unwavering and invaluable support in the fight to prevent knife crime.”

“Together, alongside our partners and through producing courses such as Trainee Detective Week we can continue to educate younger generations so that more lives are not ruined.”

Tanya Brown of the Connor Brown Trust, said: “It has been an incredible week with a different cohort of students embarking on the Trainee Detective Programme. From the first moment we met the students they were eager to engage with us by asking questions, listening and wanting to learn more. They were all so respectful and thoughtful towards us which to us shows compassion and an awareness of the impact it has had on us as a family.”

“As the week progressed, the students welcomed us when we visited and told us all about what they had been learning with such enthusiasm and empathy. What the students are learning through this programme is vital life skills, it’s not just about knife crime but about choices, consequences and lifesaving medical skills involving catastrophic bleeds.”

“I understand the need for academic structure, but these life skills are just as important, all children and young people face challenges in life and they all need to be equipped to deal with those challenges. The Trainee Detective programme focuses on some of those challenges and the young people are learning a wide range of skills without even realising, such as communication skills and teamwork. The students have excelled themselves with their positive attitudes to the programme throughout the week.”

Steve Campbell, Principal at Jesmond Park Academy, said: “This has been a truly unique experience for our students and will have a lifelong impact on the children that have attended.”

“Knife crime and the associated consequences are very much at the forefront of the minds of anyone that works with young people. It is one of our biggest fears that our children would ever have to be witness to, or become involved in any type of violent crime. Any support to empower the children to make informed safe choices is always welcomed.”

“I am pleased that we have been able to support the initiative by letting our children out of school for a week, although they will have studies to catch up on I am sure that they will have learned many valuable lessons which will remain with them forever.”

“I am sure that they will have found the week hard work and at times difficult to listen to some of the real life stories but I am equally sure that it will have been very worthwhile.”

For more about Trainee Detective Week, email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.

A new initiative between police and partner organisations is aiming to reduce the number of young people going missing from home.

Safe Return is launching this week in Sunderland and will see officers from Northumbria Police liaise with counterparts in Sunderland Together For Children and Waythrough to identify children who have begun to go missing from home recently on a regular basis.

The programme has been fully funded by the Violence Reduction Unit, which is within the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth.

Safe Return will offer appropriate intervention support to young people who go missing at an early stage and ultimately prevent them from repeatedly going missing.

The scheme has been used in Northamptonshire Police force area, with positive results.

Detective Chief Inspector Kevin Ashurst, who heads up Northumbria Police’s Missing Person’s Team, said: “Prevention remains one of our Force priorities and we are passionate about getting missing people located quickly and returned to their families, carers and loved-ones.

“This innovative new project will see us work alongside our partners to identify those young people who regularly go missing and get them the support they need at an early stage.

“We appreciate that being a teenager or young person can be difficult and there are a number of factors as to why people start to go missing.

“This scheme will further build on our efforts in identifying why a particular person is going missing and supporting them so that future incidents are prevented.”

Simon Marshall, Director of Children’s Services and Chief Executive for Together for Children, said: “We know that early intervention and getting to the root of the problem is key to not only reducing the number of children and young people going missing, but it also allows us to better support those who are doing so on a regular basis, and their families.

“Partnership working has always been at the heart of what we do, and by working collaboratively as part of the Safe Return project we have been able to strengthen our joint city-wide approach to children and young people going missing and help ensure young people are able to stay safe and thrive.”

A spokesperson for Waythrough said: “We are eager to participate in this innovative programme in partnership with the police and Together for Children, offering vital support to children experiencing missing-from-home episodes.

“We look forward to witnessing the positive impact that the Safe Return initiative will bring to children and families across the Sunderland area.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “Safe Return is a vital and proactive initiative dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable young people in Sunderland. By prioritising early intervention, this programme addresses the root causes of why young people go missing, ensuring meaningful support is in place before these behaviours can become patterns.”

“The approach has already shown promising results elsewhere, and we’re confident that Safe Return will have a similar positive impact in Sunderland. Supporting young people so they feel safe and understood is essential, and this programme highlights our shared commitment to that goal. It not only reassures families, but also actively reduces the risks faced by young people when they go missing.

“This crucial support has been made possible through a close partnership between the Violence Reduction Unit, Northumbria Police, Waythrough and Together for Children. Together, we are building safer, stronger communities for everyone.”

Anyone who needs to report a person as missing can do so by sending Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or by using the live chat function on the Force website.

For those unable to contact the Force via those ways, call 101.

The Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit has launched a series of e-learning modules to increase awareness around the impact of knife crime, joint enterprise, gangs and youth violence, and hidden harms.

Equipping youth workers, practitioners, and community leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to address serious violence at its roots, the new courses focus on identifying risk factors, understanding the law, and safely intervening at the earliest point to help create safer communities.

The e-learning initiative is part of a wider effort to tackle serious violence and ensures training is available to provide frontline workers with a comprehensive insight to engage young people at risk and prevent violent behaviour before it escalates.

Developed in collaboration with online training provider, Me Learning, the resources make it easy for participants to learn at their own pace, and on completion of four mandatory modules, they will become a Violence Prevention Ambassador, with the opportunity to join a network of likeminded individuals.

Each module incorporates important information, engaging content and interactive quizzes, with the four packages covering:

• Knife Crime Awareness: Through the Me Learning platform, this course is available to a national audience, with a key focus on understanding the causes and effects of knife crime, including strategies for prevention, and signposting additional support.
• Joint Enterprise: This module provides a clear understanding of Joint Enterprise, and sets out to demystify the complex topic by addressing common misconceptions, awareness of the legal framework and the consequences of participating in a criminal act.
• Gangs and Youth Violence: This course provides a comprehensive overview of gangs and youth violence, helping learners understand what gangs are, what they do, the role of women and girls, and the work done to prevent recruitment.
• Hidden Harm: This module helps learners understand the cycle of events around parental substance misuse, mental health and domestic abuse, as well as highlighting how to spot signs of harm.

Focusing on these specific issues, the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit aims to empower trusted adults to help tackle the root causes of serious violence, and build safer, stronger communities locally.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “Addressing serious violence means tackling its root causes head on. It requires a proactive, informed approach that reaches young people before issues escalate. By equipping youth workers, community leaders and practitioners with this training, we’re giving them the tools to address underlying issues that drive violence.”

“These courses are more than just awareness; they’re about empowering trusted adults in the community to intervene at the earliest point, ensuring support is available to help young people make positive decisions for their future, and preventing further harm. Together, we’re building a network of informed individuals who can help break cycles of violence and build safer, stronger communities.”

Sarah Howarth, Managing Director at Me Learning said: “This collaboration with Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit represents a pivotal opportunity to make critical knife crime awareness training accessible to a broader audience. Previously, face-to-face training meant that participants had to travel significant distances, limiting the reach of this essential knowledge.”

“By digitizing the course and creating a solution that would have far reaching impact at scale, we address an urgent need for greater accessibility, allowing the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit to extend vital training efficiently and effectively across a much wider area. Through this digital Knife Crime Awareness Course, practitioners will gain comprehensive, consistent training without geographic constraints—enabling them to play a proactive role in reducing knife crime and fostering safer communities.”

For more information about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit or the Violence Prevention Ambassadors programme, visit the website.