Knife crime: giving Blackpool a voice in parliament

I met with the Crime and Policing Minister, Diana Johnson MP, to discuss my serious concerns about knife crime and anti social behaviour, which continues to have a devastating impact on communities in Blackpool.

We are witnessing the toll that knife crime can take on our young people, families and neighbourhoods. The rise in violence is not just about crime statistics – it's about the lives affected and the real fear felt by residents who deserve to feel safe on their own streets.

It was good to talk with Diana about what more can be done as part of my commitment to making sure Blackpool's voice is heard in Parliament. The government is making significant progress through targeted interventions and the key initiative to increase the number of community policing officers on the streets. These officers play an essential role in building trust within communities, gathering valuable intelligence, and providing a visible deterrent to potential offenders.

The Labour Government is also investing in youth services, recognising that providing young people with constructive activities and opportunities can be a powerful deterrent against crime and anti-social behaviour.

Efforts are being made to strengthen sentencing for repeat offenders and those involved in serious crimes, ensuring they face the full force of the law. Simultaneously, we are concentrating on rehabilitation programmes that aim to reduce reoffending by addressing underlying issues such as substance misuse and mental health.

Weapons for sale in a Blackpool joke shop

I know we need more focused action to tackle the root causes of knife crime, such as poverty, lack of opportunity, and social inequality.

I’ll continue to work with government ministers, local authorities, police, and community leaders to ensure that Blackpool’s specific problems are tackled so we can protect our young people and make Blackpool a safer place for everyone.

Read my previous blog about how knife crime affects young people in Blackpool here.