Police are launching a new social media video and podcast campaign against knife crime

The police have created a series of podcasts and videos featuring young people which will be published this week.

Let’s Talk About Knife Crime is featured on the force’s YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok platforms.

A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Have you ever wondered why people carry knives? Do you know how to give up the knife? What are the consequences of transportation? We sat down with Craig, Will, Nikita and Paul to answer these questions.

“Next week we are launching a new series of podcast videos to help reduce knife crime and serious youth violence in the West Midlands. Podcast videos feature Craig, Will, Nikita and Paul.

“Let’s Talk Knife Crime explores the impact and consequences of carrying a knife. Our experts discuss a range of topics including why people carry knives, the influence of social media and finding a reason to stop violence.”

Youth knife crime has claimed the lives of teenagers in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley and Birmingham in the past year and the new campaign wants to stop children and their elders carrying knives.

The spokesperson said: “We hope these podcast videos help everyone to talk more openly about knife crime and feel more confident about reporting knife carrying to us or Crimestoppers.

“Since Monday, the series on our YouTube channel and on our social media platforms. Be sure to follow our TikTok and Instagram accounts to see our little versions of the podcast. If you know someone who carries a knife or is involved in knife crime, please contact us by calling 101 or report online.”