Tackling knife crime in Thamesmead and Abbey Wood.
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Drop the knives

Following last year’s two tragic fatal stabbings in Thamesmead, local young people Sian Dell and Hayley Brackell have begun a Facebook group to tackle knife crime in Thamesmead and Abbey Wood.

They want to reduce knife crime, create safe spaces, activities and clubs for local young people and increase awareness and education of the reality and severity of knife crime.

The first of their community meetings was recently held at The Nest and focused on providing a safe space for members of the community. It was also attended by representatives of local organisations, the police, local councillors and Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead.

Sian said: “It is really important that the community can have their concerns heard, share suggestions and be part of helping to facilitate change. Around 40 people attended, and we have discussed our concerns, suggested ideas and connected with one
another.”

Sian and Hayley are planning to hold more meetings, details can be found on their Facebook group — Drop the knives, Save Lives — or they can be contacted at droptheknives.se2@gmail.com

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