Last week, as part of intensified police activity to tackle knife crime under Operation Sceptre, Trading Standards supported our efforts by conducting test purchasing at retailers on the Isle of Wight.
Test purchasing involves employing young volunteers to enter a shop or supermarket and attempt to purchase age-restricted goods – in this case, knives.
All retailers passed the test
11 retailers were visited in the Newport area over the course of the week, and we are pleased that all of the outlets passed the test, meaning that no knives were sold to the young volunteers.
Attwood: A fantastic reflection of the store owners
Inspector Alison Attwood, from the Isle of Wight High Harm Team, said,
“The fact that no knives were sold to underage people during the test purchasing is a fantastic reflection of the store owners on the Island looking to keep the community safe.
“Working with businesses and partners in this fashion plays such a crucial role in preventing knives getting into the wrong hands.
“We know that young people in particular face pressures to carry weapons, or may be subject to exploitation, so early intervention is key.
“Throughout Operation Sceptre we have also been engaging with local schools. Opening up the conversation with young people allows us to further understand the reasons why individuals carry knives and also to educate them around the dangers of carrying one.”
Gregory: Important we continue to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime
Amanda Gregory, Isle of Wight Council’s Strategic Manager for Regulatory and Community Safety Services, said,
“The result of our test purchasing operation is really positive. It shows that local retailers are aware of their responsibilities and are mindful of the risks that unlawfully selling knives to young people could present.
“It’s important that as a community we continue to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime, as part of the Community Safety Partnership, alongside our police, education, parents/carers and other partners, to keep our young people safe.”
Get in touch
If you are aware of anyone who carries a knife or have concerns that someone you know may carry a knife, please report it to police or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
We also encourage parents and their children to visit the Fearless Website. This is a great resource for broaching the subject of knife crime with young people, and Fearless also provides a service independent of the police where children and young people can seek support or report issues completely anonymously.
News shared by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, in their own words. Ed
Image: davepaterson under CC BY 2.0
