Community leaders are holding an event to provide reassurance to residents about knife crime. The event also aims to raise awareness of the work being done to tackle knife crime and what support systems are in place for people affected by it.

So far, the police, Crimestoppers, Victim Support, Unique Talent and the council’s youth offending team have all confirmed they will be attending. Local businesses are being encouraged to join them and where possible, make pledges on action they will take to combat knife crime.

As well as presentations and networking, there will be a marketplace with a range of stalls run by organisations which are engaged in the prevention and detection of knife crime.

Merton Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Engagement and Equalities, Councillor Edith Macauley, said: “Although Merton is one of the safest boroughs in London, we are aware that our residents are affected by knife crime and the fear of crime is a key concern for them.

“The council is working closely with our partners to ensure residents stay safe. This event is an opportunity to find out what organisations are doing to prevent knife crime, support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.”

The event will be held in Morden Baptist Church in Crown Lane, Morden, on Saturday 18 May between 9.30am and 12.30pm.
The event is open to all and attendees are asked to register in advance here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/communities-and-knife-crime-working-together-to-keep-merton-safe-tickets-59824104507

• If you have information about a crime that has taken place in your local area, contact the anonymous crime reporting service Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
  If you have been affected by a crime and require help, support, or advice, you can speak to the charity Victim Support confidentially on 020 7801 1777.